Black Iron "ALLY" IWB Holster

  Any one who has considered the idea of carrying a firearm for protection, has had to look into holsters. Almost always, this ends up with a drawer full of unused holsters. The people over at Black Iron Holsters have made the job of choosing a holster a little bit easier with their ALLY series of inside the waistband (IWB) holster.

  The Ally IWB holster is one of the most comfortable holsters I have worn. I am not sure exactly how to describe the ALLY, but think hybrid holster on steroids. The first thing you notice on the holster, is the padding on the back, or the side that rides against your body. This padding is an UnderArmor moisture wicking fabric sewn over perforated padding and then mounted on the flexible kydex core. The padded fabric is said to pull sweat away from the body and make for a cooler drier holster. I did notice that I didn't sweat as much on the holster backing when it was hot outside. But the holster did seem to feel warmer than some other types. The ALLY also doesn't seem to feel cold either, like some all kydex holsters do. 

  When they construct the holster, they use the above mentioned padding, but with some extras. They call it C-Pak. C-Pak adds in a flexible kydex core, 500 denier Cordura fabric, and the moisture wicking and padding mentioned above. All of this helps add to the comfort and usefulness of the holster. The whole holster, except the backing, has been wrapped in the Cordura nylon. This cordura wrapping actually reduces the effects of holster wear on the firearm by giving the firearm something besides the kydex to rub on. They also sew on a border around the whole holster. This border helps smooth the outer edges so that nothing can catch on the them.

  When I mentioned hybrid style on steroids, here is what I mean. The holster is constructed with a large backing plate and then the outer holster is attached to it. But all of this is wrapped as mentioned above. They also put in a tension adjustment screw so that you can adjust it to your preference. The backing on my supplied holster has 3 holes for each clip, it has a front and rear clip. These holes make it possible to adjust for ride height and cant. Also the supplied nylon clips have 2 mounting screw options for even more adjustment. Even with the clips mounted in the same holes on the backing plate, the cant of the firearm is pretty noticeable. I did have a problem with the screws, that the clips are mounted to, coming loose. I put thread locker on them, but got some on the nylon clips. DON'T get threadlocker on the clips, it might make them crack and break like in my case. I emailed Black Iron and told them what I did, within a few days they had sent me new clips. I was just going to use some others I had around here since it was my fault they broke. So a big +1 for customer service.

  Aside from this being a very comfortable holster, it is also very functional. This holster has a little bit of break in time associated with it, like 2-3 days. After that, I didn't really even notice it. One of the great features of the ALLY is that the holster mouth doesn't collapse when the pistol is removed. Thus making reholstering safer and easier. Holstering the pistol was a little strange at first, I kept wanting to here the audible click like most hybrid or kydex holsters. But it felt more like an all leather holster. Don't be worried about this holster printing either. It has a very smooth profile. I did notice that it is slightly thicker than some holster due to its padding and cordura, but the smooth profile made up for this. It is hard to notice this holster being worn. I usually only hide it under a T-shirt and that works well.

  Now, the ALLY comes in the four different fabric colors listed below. But don't fret, they seem to make this holster for just about every popular, and even other not so popular handguns. Also with options for various weapon lights. If they don't list your handgun, their website says to contact them, which makes me think they will do their best to help you out. So if your in the market for a nice IWB holster, give Black Iron Holsters a look. 

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Soft/Comfortable Inside the waistband kydex holster

Target Market:

Concealed Carriers

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • C-Pak Backing
  • Cordura wrapped
  • Hand washable
  • Made for each individual firearm
  • 1.5" clips
  • Adjustable for ride height and cant
  • Tension adjustment
  • Breathable
  • Flexible
  • Cerakoted hardware
  • Made in U.S.A.

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

Coyote, Multicam, and Multicam Black

What others are saying?:

Great Holster, Buying More: Roger from BIH 5/5 Stars

I received my holster 2 weeks ago and this is by far hands down the greatest holster i have ever used. It fits like a glove both on myself and for my glock. It is everything described and more, i am a delivery driver and spend the majority of the time on the road getting in and out of my truck. I can honestly say by the end of the day it was so comfortable i completely forgot i was wearing it by the end of my shift. I will be swapping out my Alien Gear holsters for my other two guns and will be ordering everything from you guys from now own. Its well worth the few extra bucks for something that is of this quality.

Great Products and Service: Timothy from BIH 5/5 Stars

First of all let me say that my experience with customer service was exceptional, I had a lot of questions concerning which style of holster to purchase and what was going to work for me. The staff at Black Iron was very knowledgeable and evidently knew what questions to ask and how to explain things because this is the best fitting and most comfortable holster i have ever worn. If you have any doubts about buying one don't you will be blown away by these things.

Link to other reviews:

Nothing found while googling

Price point:

MSRP = $79.95

I need it now! Availability:

Black Iron Holsters

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Comfortable

  • Holster mouth stays open

  • Flexible

  • Adjustable retention

  • Tuckable

  • Adjustable Cant and Ride height

  • Firearm options (lights, lasers, models)

Cons:

  • Sewing of fabric looked poor (Not straight)

  • Slightly thicker

  • Clip mounting screws come loose (Maybe supply pre-threadlocked screws)

 

Score: 7.5 Good

 

Chad’s Favorite Link: U.S. Tactical Supply  

 

 

 

LA Police Gear MOLLE Elite Tactical Christmas Stocking

This is the coolest item to get a firearm enthusiast for Christmas!

FIREARMS INSIDER REVIEWS – 8 KEY POINTS

Claim to Fame: Ultra Super Deluxe version! Bring some tactical cheer to your fireplace, foxhole, police department, or forward operating base!

Target Market:  Christmas Stocking users of all ages

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • Vertical zipper opening
  • Rubber Carry Handle
  • MOLLE webbing
  • 2 Swivel hanger clip
  • Small marsupial pouch
  • 3" x 4" Velcro for morale patches

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?:  Black, Coyote, OD Green

WHAT OTHERS ARE SAYING?: 

"I expected something cheaply made, but this is better than I expected. The only complaint I have is the spacing on the MOLLE straps isn't correct, but it's not like I'm taking it into combat, so that's small potatoes. Otherwise, I'm happy with this at the price point." - Customer Review

PRICE POINT:

I NEED IT NOW! AVAILABILITY:

Website

OUR RATING:

Pros:

  • Accepts addition pouches via MOLLE webbing
  • Carry handle for heavy hauls
  • Linkable for multiple stockings
  • Smaller marsupial pouch does work with morale patches with hook backing

Cons:

  • Marsupial pouch is tiny and almost useless
  • Carry handle overlaps and covers up patches
  • Non-reversable

SCORE: 8.5 GREAT

Featured FFL:

For FFL services I choose Promised Land Firearms in Toulon, IL.

Ryan's Links:

Gun & Gear Review Podcast
Hunter of Design

Guntec 15" Air Lite Handguard

   As one can probably guess, this is about Guntec's new 15" Air Lite handguard for the AR15. I received the handguard about 2 months ago and have been using it ever since. Guntec has been around since 1989. They make tons of accessories for AR15's, AR10's, AK's, and even more. 

Shown with an extra M-Lok rail on bottom and a rubber M-Lok cover

  The Guntec hanguard that I received was in M-lok. For you keymod fans, they make them also. Now the first thing I would like to mention is how thin the handguard is. If you like them thin, you'll love this handguard. It measure 1.5" wide, 1.975" tall, and has an inside diameter of 1.34". It also has a built in full length top picatinny rail. I will mention that although it is M-Lok, it only has 3 m-lok slots each on the sides and bottom, toward the very front of the handguard. This would be 3, 6, and 9 o'clock.  The rest of the handguard has cut out triangle patterns to reduce weight. 

  Now, this Guntec handguard is light. On my scale, it weighed in at 9.6 ounces complete with barrel nut and screws. Remember, this is a 15" handguard with a full top rail, so this is quite good. The barrel nut is also aluminum, which helps with the weight. 

  Installation of the Air Lite was pretty straight forward. Which is good since it didn't come with any instructions. Once all your old parts are off. Slide the barrel nut on and tighten as normal. If the screw holes that hold the handguard on don't line up, remove it and put one of the supplied shims in it and try again. My kit came with 4 shims, I only had to use 1 to get the holes to line up. Guntec also lists a crowfoot wrench for the barrel nut, buying the wrench will make life much easier. Next install the gas block. I only mention this because you will need a low profile one, and smaller is better in this case. Then slide the handguard on. Line it up. Then install,  and tighten down, the supplied screws. Thread locker is probably a good idea. And as always, safety check the rifle when finished. 

  Depending on where the gas block is located, you might run into some accessory mounting problems. Since the handguard is so thin, the screws on the m-lok parts may run into the gas block. On a mid-length or rifle length gas system, one set of m-lok attaching slots will not be usable. The inner part of the handguard is just too close to the gas block. Cutting down the screws won't even work. If you run a carbine or shorter gas system, you won't have this problem.  

  After shooting this handguard, here is what I found. Being that it is very thin helps if you shoot thumb over bore, or if you have smaller hands (think children). I did notice that it heats up faster than some of my larger diameter handguards, but really this is only a problem after 3 or 4 30rd mag dumps. It has no sharp edges and is flat on the end so it doesn't get caught up on stuff. It is not what you want if you plan on putting a suppressor under it (too thin). It is quite sturdy. And it comes with rubber m-lok inserts. 

  If you are looking for a light handguard, this Guntec might be for you. I would like m-lok slots all the way down, which they make, just not in the Air Lite version. The price is reasonable. It looks good and even comes in many different colors. Go check out Guntec, they probably make an accessory for you. 

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

15" really light AR15 handguard 

Target Market:

AR15 owners wanting a thin and/or light handguard 

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • T6 Aluminum Body
  • Proprietary Lightweight Aluminum Barrel Nut Included
  • Total Weight Including Barrel Nut Is 8.9 oz. I measured at 9.6 ounces
  • 3 M-LOK Slots On 3 Sides of Front End Of Handguard 
  • Triangle / Diamond Cuts Throughout Handguard to Reduce Weight
  • Rail System Slides Over Barrel Nut , And Is Locked Up Against Receiver With 6 Screws
  • Monolithic Top Rail
  • 15" Length
  • Internal Diameter: 1.34"
  • Outside Diameter: 1.50"
  • Made in USA

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

KeyMod, Red, O.D. Green, F.D.E., and Blue

What others are saying?:

Google did not find anything

Link to other reviews:

We Like Shooting review of the 12" std handguard

Price point:

MSRP = $129.95

Retail = $111.71 at OpticsPlanet

I need it now! Availability:

Optics Planet, GunTec USA only sells to dealers 

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Lightweight

  • Sturdy

  • Complete top rail

  • Small Diameter

  • Free Float

  • Made In USA

  • Great Price

  • Multiple Color Options

  • Rubber M-Lok "covers" included

Cons:

  • No Instructions

  • Only M-Lok slots are at the front

  • No QD attachment points

  • M-Lok screw run into gas block

Score: 8.00 Great

Chad's Favorite Link: U.S. Tactical Supply

 

Athlon Argos BTR 8-34x56 Riflescope

34x in a rifle scope? The Athlon Argos BTR brings alot of power to the table.

When it comes to scopes for long range shooting, I tend to not stray away from the brands and models I'm used to, and I can imagine there are more than a few of you that would feel the same. Admittedly, I usually turn my nose up at anything thats not a higher tier Leupold, Vortex or Nightforce. However, my snobbery may have just been put in check, because I've given a completely different brand a test drive, and so far I really like what I see. Pun intended.

I've never really heard of Athlon before, but a good friend (and Athlon dealer) convinced me to give their Argos BTR scope a try. I happened to be in the market for a new scope to sit atop a .300 Win Mag, a Remington 700 LR that I built for my father. Initially I had mounted a Vortex Viper with a BDC reticle on this rifle, but my old man had trouble seeing the fine crosshairs when looking at anything that wasn't a white wall. So I was looking for a thicker reticle that would be easier for his aging eyes to pick up, but also fully capable of taking pokes out to 1,000 yards and further.

The Argos BTR has features usually reserved for higher end scope lines at 3 times the price.

Having exclusively used Vortex optics on my rifles for the last 5 years, I had thought they were the reigning champions of "best bang-for-your-buck" in the optics market. Their scopes had introduced me to higher quality glass and high end features, and as long as I was shelling out less than a grand, I was happy. I was, until I found out this Argos BTR had some of the same features and damn near comparable glass, for under four hundred dollars. I wish I had known about them sooner, then I could have budgeted my build for other higher quality parts like a slicker bipod setup, trigger, etc.

The rotation of the magnification ring and the illumination dial are smooth and tight.

I'll start off with the glass itself. The Argos BTR has two coatings on the lenses, a multi-coat to increase image brightness and clarity at dusk and dawn when the light is dimmest, and a XPL coating to protect the lens surfaces from dirt, grease and other gunk. The multi-coating treatment is supposed to reduce reflected light and increases the transmission of light, resulting in a brighter image compared to a normal single coated lens.

The turrets of the MIL Argos BTR are 1/10 MIL per click, and the turrets have detents for audible and tangible increments.

With a magnification range of 8-34, I was pretty skeptical at the performance at the higher range. Trust me, it was the first thing I had to check for myself. It's not as good as an actual spotting scope, but with 34x you could just about leave the spotting scope in the truck. I found that at 34x colors and edges did degrade to a slight degree, but backed down between 20-24x images returned to what I expect. The Argos BTR also has side parallax adjustment, a feature I insist on having on all my riflescopes, that lets you dial the focus to the distance you are scanning, so details are as crisp as can be.

The reticle itself is called the APMR FFP IR MIL reticle, and besides being a mouthful its actually one of the easiest to digest MIL reticles I've seen. Most manufacturers use some sort of MILRAD reticle thats so complicated and busy, you feel like you need to take a special forces sniper class just to understand it and really "know it like the back of your hand." I believe thats what deters a lot of new rifle shooters from learning the MIL system and instead go with MOA since it can be easier to wrap your mind around for a civilian who is used to shooting at fixed distances at the range. The Argos BTR 8-34x56 is available in MOA configuration, but for the sake of the review I will only discuss my scope in hand which is MIL.

Parallax on long range scopes should be mandatory, and the Argos BTR delivers.

The IR of the aforementioned mouthful stands for illuminated reticle, and it's become a standard feature on many higher end scopes over the past several years. While it may seem like a gimmick to the traditionalist, I have taken two blacktail deer, two years in a row, and both times I had switched the illumination on to get better contrast off the dark, wet fur of October bucks. The contrast is a big benefit to instantly turn on, especially if the distance of the shot requires use of drop marks and legibility is critical. The IR turret was a little stiff for my liking right out of the box, but it did get smoother over time with use. Obviously this would be a crucial area for moisture to penetrate the optic, so tight tolerances are fully appreciated.

The APMR FFP IR MIL reticle is etched on the glass, a common practice that allows for a complex reticle design as well as much higher shock resistance to recoil. The numbers 2, 4, 6, and 8 are marked thick enough to read easily.  There are half mil hash mark increments between the center and 7 mil marks, and finer 0.2 mil hash marks between the 7 mil to 9 mil marks on the left, right and bottom lines. That make using hold-overs a snap, as well as using more accurate hold over adjustments at longer ranges where small errors lead to larger misses. The whole reticle spans 18 mils... well, until you zoom in past 20x magnification. Being a first focal plane scope (FFP) means the reticle gets larger as you zoom in. After 20x the reticle begins to crop, and at the highest power setting of 34x a span of 9 mils is left within view, leaving 4.5 mils usable for left, right, up or down holds.

Excuse the camera focus on the following images, photographing through a scope is harder than it looks.

The lowest magnification setting, 8x power on a 200 yard stump (left) and illuminated (right)

24x power on a 200 yard stump (left) and illuminated (right). Notice the reticle grows to fill the circle.

34x power on a 200 yard stump (left) and illuminated (right). The First Focal Plane causes the reticle to crop in to 9 MILS across.

The benefit to first focal plane is the subtensions remain true at every magnification range. After getting into FFP scopes a few years ago, I definitely prefer them over SFP (second focal plane) where the reticle's drop measurements are only true when you're zoomed in on the maximum magnification. If you are hunting, and need to take a long shot on an animal that requires using the reticles ballistic compensation system, the subtensions should be accurate no matter what power the magnification is on, for an ethical attempt to be made. Even if your at the range or in a competition where time and score matters, the same remains true. If you need to engage a target quickly. the lower magnification power offers a shrunken reticle with finer detail that still retains precise holdover marks.

The Argos BTR is constructed of a 6061T6 aircraft grade one-piece aluminum tube. I'm told the tube is heat treated to give the body extra strength. The one piece design is used to keep the scope mechanically strong, as well as "proofed" against the conditions that will ruin a scope and your day just as easily. Athlon argon purges their scopes to push any moisture out of the tube during manufacturing, which helps with waterproofing in case the scope is exposed to rain or even accidentally submerged. The purging also helps give the scope stability in different temperatures, preventing a buildup of fog when you emerge from a toasty truck or wall tent into the brisk morning air.

Something to note: the built-in stubby magnification level can impede the bolt knob if using medium rings and your knob is enlarged (insert medical joke here)

On the bench, sighting in the Argos BTR on the .300wm test rifle was a breeze. I did have to go out and get taller rings, I usually run mediums with 50mm scopes to get the bell really close to the barrel, but for the 56mm of the Argos BTR, high rings were needed. The turrets have tangible detents you can feel as your turning them, and the "click" of each turn is audible. The turrets are engraved with hashes, however they didn't quite line up with the engraved reference lines on the scope if your eye is lined up perfectly down the tube. Have no fear, its an easy fix. Once your rifle is zeroed at the range, loosen the screws atop both turrets and pop the caps off, realigning the "0" on the engraved reference line, and reinstall the screws. The lines should be lining up correctly if you did your job right. I love this feature on rifle scopes, because if you use your turrets to make adjustments for wind and elevation conditions, you can return to zero afterwards. There is no zero stop however, so you will have to mentally keep track of how many rotations of the turret you made in order to return to zero.

The Argos BTR 8-34x56mm is a hellova scope for its pricetag. The value speaks for itself.

Overall I would say this is a fantastic scope for a precision rifle budget build, or even on a hunting rifle thats capable of longer ranges. It does have some weight at over 32 ounces, so I wouldn't recommend it on a featherweight mountain rifle or a range toy like a sporter AR-15 or other carbine. If you are wanting to learn the milliradian system and get the right scope to learn on, this scope is a great candidate. If you are wanting an iron clad warranty like the other big optic brands, rest easy because Athlon products are lifetime warranted against defects and workmanship. They guarantee to repair or replace your optic for no charge if it is damaged through normal use, with no receipt or no registration needed. So while that doesn't mean you can deliberately run it over in the parking lot, you can be confident they'll back their products should you have an issue. 

FIREARMS INSIDER REVIEWS – 8 KEY POINTS

Claim to Fame: For those of you that are just getting started in the PRS or are looking to start, take a close look at the Argos BTR family of scopes.

Target Market:  Precision / Long range shooters

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • 8-34 Magnification
  • 56 mm Objective Lens Diameter
  • 30 mm Tube Diameter
  • Reticle APMR FFP IR MIL, Glass Etched
  • First Focal Plane Reticle
  • Illuminated Reticle
  • Matte Surface Finish
  • Wide Band Fully Multicoated Lens Coating
  • Xtra Protective Coating Extra Coating
  • 6061 Aluminium Tube Material, Heat Treated One Piece Tube Construction
  • 7-1.7 mm Exit Pupil
  • 3.3 inches Eye Relief
  • 12.5-3 feet Field of View @100 yards
  • 0.1MIL Click Value
  • 5MIL Adjustment range per rotation
  • 13 MIL Total Elevation Adjustment
  • 13 MIL Total Windage Adjustment
  • Exposed Turret Style
  • Side Focus Parallax Adjustment – 15 yards to infinity
  • 15.5 inches Length
  • 32.2 ounces Weight
  • Waterproof
  • Fog proof
  • Shockproof
  • Argon Purged
  • Athlon Gold Medal Lifetime Warranty

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?:  MIL or MOA reticle / turrets

WHAT OTHERS ARE SAYING?: 

"I have it mounted on a 6.5 Creedmoor and have shot out to 1018 yards. Overall I am pretty happy with my purchase, I did not expect anything special as a high quality scope with this kind of magnification would be almost 10X the cost.
Pros:
Descent glass with etched reticle and FFP (Means you can use the MOA or MRAD hash marks at any magnification level). You get a clear picture out to about 24X.
Illuminated reticle that works well. Have not tested much in low light.
Adjustable turrets that seem to hold zero.
Lifetime warranty.
Low cost for that much optic.
Cons:
Image starts to get a little fuzzy and color distorted past about 24X magnification, but still visible. I like to shoot with it at about 2X and zoom in to see my shots with the 34X.
The turrets have very soft clicks and are sometimes difficult to feel. At least on mine the lines on the turret and on the scope do not match up. It stops about half way between the two.
For all you who are looking to do some serious long range shooting here is the biggest problem. It is a 30mm tube, which is fine for most shooting but when you get out at 800+ yards the recoil of the gun throws the scope off target and because the FOV is so small with that 30mm tube it is difficult to get back on to see your hit. I have done it at 1018 yards but it is a fight. If you want something for really long range you'll want to look at a 40 or 50mm tube. But those scopes are very very expensive.
Overall:
Good purchase, just understand that it is a cheap scope. I feel like you get more than what you pay for but you really are not getting even an $800 Vortex, let alone a Swarovski." - Amazon Review

PRICE POINT:

I NEED IT NOW! AVAILABILITY:

Website or Pershing Armory, Amazon, or Optics Planet

OUR RATING:

Pros:

  • Finish is tough and wear resistant
  • Magnification ring turns smooth with not too much resistance
  • Magnification ring has a raised nub for leverage, not too big to snag like a throw lever
  • Turrets can be re-zeroed

Cons:

  • Clarity gets slightly hazy past 24x
  • No zero stop for returning to zero
  • Built in magnification lever can impede aftermarket bolt knobs (zoomed to 8-9x)

SCORE: 8.0 GREAT

Featured FFL:

For FFL services I choose Promised Land Firearms in Toulon, IL.

Ryan's Links:

Gun & Gear Review Podcast
Hunter of Design

Bigfoot Gun Belt

The Bigfoot gun belt is designed to be one of the sturdiest belts on the market with a spring steel core for rigidity. The belt comes in a few different variations depending on what you are looking for. I chose to go for the “hardcore” model. The 18oz double leather belt with the stainless spring steel core. I chose it in black to blend in to anything I was wearing regardless of dress or casual. I also chose this one because I tend to carry a couple different pistols ranging from a heavy steel frame 1911 to a Glock 19 to a Smith and Wesson Shield. I felt that this would do the job without the notorious sag you get from a lot of belts on the market. I have been wearing this belt since March and I have to say I am extremely impressed. Working in a non-air conditioned warehouse in Georgia, I sweat though my clothes daily. This means that my belt tends to get wet and stay wet all day. I needed a belt that could withstand the sweat and still hold its shape when I put on a heavier pistol after a day of work. After 8-9 months of daily hard use and abuse, I have yet to have any sag, twisting, stretch, or real noticeable wear.

The belt also comes in brown with options for a 14oz, as well as 14oz with or without the steel core. You have the option of going with the usual steel buckle, or for a couple bucks more, you can choose a flat black buckle. The steel buckle has held up great with no visual marks from wear or rust. All belts are only in 1.5” widths. Something to keep in mind if you are used to 1.75” widths. The buckles are attached using directional snaps. This means that you can change out the buckles later for a different look or if they get damaged. The directional snaps fit snugly and securely without any chance of being unsnapped. You have to firmly lift and re-snap the buttons in a specific way or they won't come undone. The stitching on my belt was and remains superb. With daily use for 8-9 months, I have yet to have any sign of the stitching coming undone.

One of the more interesting and, in my opinion, awesome ordering aides is the way that Bigfoot sizes their belts. They use your pant size. This is actually pretty ingenious and straight forward. With Bigfoot, gone are the days of wrapping para cord around your waist, or finding a tape measure to figure out what size belt you need. You simply select your pant size from the drop down menu and your on your way. With all of these features, This belt might be the last one I ever use.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Stainless spring steel core to prevent sagging, twisting, and stretching

Target Market:

Anyone looking for a good EDC belt, carry belt, dress belt. I wouldn't recommend it for competition.

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

● Spring steel core

● Double layered English bridle leather

● Sizing by pant size, not waist size

● Replaceable buckles

● 1.5” width across all belts for universal fit in any belt loop

● 3 variations depending on use

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

● 2 color options – Brown and Black

● Stainless buckle or matte black buckle

● With or without steel core

● 14oz no core

● 14oz with core

● 18oz with core

What others are saying?:

“In daily use, the belt works great. It’s of obvious high quality and looks the part. Adjustment steps aside (more on that later), it’s a lot more comfortable than I expected it would be. That vertical stiffness really doesn’t affect comfort, and the belt moves with you well enough in the ways that matter.” - The Truth About Guns
“He determined the quality is unquestionable, the core is authentic steel (doesn’t melt at normal combustion temperatures), the stitching is sturdy and reinforced, and the leather is unyielding.” - Concealed Nation

Link to other reviews:

Concealed Nation

Guns, Gear, and On Target Training

Price point:

MSRP = $54.88 - $64.88 on Bigfoot's website

Retail = $71.88 on Amazon.com

I need it now! Availability:

Direct from Bigfoot's website – Cheapest I've found

Amazon.com – More expensive

Our Rating:

Pros:

● Steel core adds rigidity not seen in most belts

● Military grade polyester threading

● Double layered English bridle leather

● Buckles can be replaced

● Available with and without steel core

Cons:

● Steel core can be too rigid out of the box

● I'd like more options on the hardware from Bigfoot

● Shirts can be caught between belt and pants around the back

● I'd like a 1.75” width option

Score: 9.0

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Magpul Hunter X-22 Stock

The Hunter X-22 is my new go-to aftermarket stock for the 10/22 rifle

The Hunter X-22 is my new go-to aftermarket stock for the 10/22 rifle

By now everyone should know how much I enjoy Magpul products. Trouble is, after you find out which buttstock, grips and accessories are your favorite, you may run out AR-15s and AK-47s to install them on. But in 2015 Magpul branched out into two other rifle markets - the Remington 700 and the Ruger 10/22. Of course I had to give both Hunter stocks a try, and after using them heavily for over a year, I'm finally ready to weigh in.

The X-22 is a rock solid upgrade from the factory plastic stock that feels like a BB gun.

The X-22 is a rock solid upgrade from the factory plastic stock that feels like a BB gun.

Not to anyone's surprise, the Hunter X-22 for the Ruger 10/22 is my new favorite stock for the rifle. It's not an overtly "tacticool" stock with the intention of looking aggressive or militarized with extra frills and chintzy features. It is a hybrid sporting/hunting design, and more importantly, fairly ergonomic. A stock that looks cool but does not facilitate a natural comfort when shouldered in a standing, prone or supported position is completely pointless. The Ruger 10/22 is capable of repeatable tack-driving accuracy, even in its factory configuration. It deserves a rock solid stock that doesn't detract from its accuracy or consistency.

The buttstock of the X-22 mirrors the SGA stock available for shotguns.

The buttstock of the X-22 mirrors the SGA stock available for shotguns.

The recoil pads feel rugged enough for magnum calibers, overkill for rimfire but still welcome.

The recoil pads feel rugged enough for magnum calibers, overkill for rimfire but still welcome.

The Hunter X-22 is made from the same high quality reinforced polymer as other Magpul products such as the PMAG and MOE furniture.  The buttstock itself is almost identical to the SGA shotgun stock, and is compatible with SGA cheek risers (sold separately) if you need extra comb height. The length of pull is also adjustable using the supplied half inch spacers. Without any spacers installed, the X-22's length of pull is 12.5" at its shortest, and 14.5" at it's longest. The recoil pad is a dense rubber which is just fine for a rimfire.

The grip angle of the X-22 is well designed and feels right pronated or on the bench.

The grip angle of the X-22 is well designed and feels right pronated or on the bench.

The grip has a very ergonomic angle with a nice surface texture on both sides, and horizontal trench lines in the front. It has a sloping toe at the base of the grip that prevents your hand from slipping down or off, which may limit those with larger fingers from getting all four on the grip... but at least all three fingers will fit for sure.

The reversible barrel tray accommodates both tapered and bull barrels.

The reversible barrel tray accommodates both tapered and bull barrels.

Remove the tray by gently prying from the action area, or pushing up from the MLOK slots.

Remove the tray by gently prying from the action area, or pushing up from the MLOK slots.

The best features of the stock are the customizable configurations. The popularity of the Ruger 10/22 comes from the availability of aftermarket parts and the ease of installing them at home without a gunsmithing degree. The barrel is one of the first things often modified, and the taper and diameter of the barrel is a big variable that often affects installing any new stock. Luckily, Magpul has a clever work around to be 99% compatible with aftermarket barrels, and that is their reversible barrel tray. One side of the tray has a tapered channel to accommodate factory pencil profile barrels, while the opposite side's channel is much wider to fit most heavy bull barrels. The tray itself sits snuggly in the forearm and is easy to remove with the right leverage. In fact, removing the tray is a good way to access any MLOK accessories mounted at the 6 oclock position, ensuring the T-nuts are oriented and tightened correctly.

After removing the barrel tray for taking photos, I saw just how much damage I had done by incorrectly tightening the MLOK hardware.

After removing the barrel tray for taking photos, I saw just how much damage I had done by incorrectly tightening the MLOK hardware.

This pictures shows what can go wrong if you leave the barrel tray in the stock, and attempt to tighten MLOK accessories blindly and haphazardly. The polymer is soft enough to become marred and worn around the slot openings if the MLOK T-nuts are overtightened when not oriented properly. Unfortunately, you cannot add accessories to the left or right side MLOK slots with the barrel tray removed, because the protruding screws with prevent the tray from being reinserted. So be sure to preset the gap between the MLOK T-nuts and the accessory to the thickness of the forearm walls, so that upon tightening the screw the T-nut rotates 90 degrees and stops when the screw is torqued correctly.

Two detents are pre-made on the underside for screwing in traditional swivel studs.

Two detents are pre-made on the underside for screwing in traditional swivel studs.

The MLOK system is great for attaching slings and other accessories. For slings, you can either attach a QD swivel mount, paraclip or other attachment point via MLOK or MLOK rail segments on the 3 oclock or 9 oclock positions of the forearm. Then you can either use the sling loop built into the buttstock or get yourself a QD Sling swivel kit to create a QD point in the buttstock itself. OR you could use the dimples molded in to the underside of the stock to screw in sling swivels manually. I've yet to find another stock with as many options for attaching slings.

For me, I kept it simple with an MLOK bipod mount, and a QD swivel mount.

For me, I kept it simple with an MLOK bipod mount, and a QD swivel mount.

Obviously the potential accessories that you can attach to the X-22 are limited only by your imagination, but I myself chose to attach a MLOK sling swivel mount on the underside of the forearm so I could readily attach a bipod. Then I added an MLOK QD sling swivel port on the left side (9 oclock).  I had no need to attach picatinny rail sections, but anyone could do so for the mounting of flashlights, lasers, or other accessories more commonly found on an AR-15. If I want to add a light, I can easily just attach a torch using the Kinect Development Kinect QD MLOK that snaps on and off all my MLOK rifles quickly as needed.

Best stock for under $150? Absolutely. Unless it's not "Call Of Duty" enough for you.

Best stock for under $150? Absolutely. Unless it's not "Call Of Duty" enough for you.

The Hunter X-22 is a fantastic stock, and coupled with a lightweight barrel like an aluminum fluted bull barrel from Tactical Solutions, it makes for a featherweight plinker thats rugged enough for the most extreme squirrel hunts on the planet. My reccomendation: ditch the barrel band and give the X-22 a try. While the price point may turn off many customers being that its about $60 from the cost of the rifle itself, I strongly believe its a very decent stock and will last as long as the 10/22 will. 

FIREARMS INSIDER REVIEWS – 8 KEY POINTS

Claim to Fame: The Magpul Hunter X-22 chassis is an ergonomic, full-featured stock for the ubiquitous Ruger 10/22 rifle.

Target Market:  Ruger 10/22 owners, hunting / target practice

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • Drop-in design compatible with all factory Ruger 10/22 .22 LR receivers
  • Reinforced polymer construction for strength and durability
  • 60 degree grip angle from bore axis
  • Adjustable LOP from 12.5”-14.5” with 0.50” Spacers
  • Non-slip rubber butt-pad
  • Optional Cheek Riser Kits to raise cheek height 0.25”, 0.50”, or 0.75” sold seperately
  • Reversible barrel tray accepts all factory barrels and aftermarket up to 0.920” diameter (12.5" minimum length)
  • Compatible with all capacities of factory Ruger 10/22 magazines
  • M-LOK slots on forend sides and bottom for a wide variety of accessory and sling mounting options
  • Two dimpled drill points to install optional standard swivel studs (#10-32 x 3/8” long dome stud)
  • Push-button QD swivel compatibility in rear with optional Sling Mount Kits sold seperately
  • Left and Right rear 1-1/4” Footman’s LoopsWeight: 2.45 lbs (w/two Spacers installed)
  • LOP Adjustment Range: ~12.5-14.5 in.
  • Width of Forend, max: 1.9 in.
  • Width of Butt, max: 1.5 in.
  • Butt-Pad Dimensions: 1.5x5.0 in.

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?:  Black, Flat Dark Earth, OD Green, Stealth Gray, Pink

WHAT OTHERS ARE SAYING?: 

"Overall, the stock is a pretty good upgrade for an accuracy-driven 10/22 build. Cheek weld is comfortable, regardless of which spacer is used. The ability to adjust the length of pull will be welcomed by those intending to use the stock with growing youths, as well as people of different sized frames. With this stock the rifle balances well, and feels more like a rifle than a BB gun (as is the case with the light factory stock). The distinct angled grip is comfortable, placing the hand in a way which promotes proper trigger finger placement. Manufactured in the best country on earth, ever, this U.S.A.-made stock will likely please everyone but the old timey, wood stock lovers out there" - Breach Bang Clear Review

PRICE POINT:

  • MSRP: $139.95
  • Retail: $117.92 Amazon

I NEED IT NOW! AVAILABILITY:

Website or Amazon

OUR RATING:

Pros:

  • Reversible barrel tray easy to pop out for tapered and bull barrels
  • Ergonomics of grip angle, cheek riser and buttstock are great
  • MLOK slots in forend and sling loop / QD swivel port allow for sling customization
  • Lightweight, not bulky

Cons:

  • Barrel is not freefloated, if desired some sanding of the barrel channel is needed
  • Side rails cannot be installed without barrel tray installed (it wont fit in channel)
  • Polymer is soft enough to become stripped around MLOK slots if accessory rails are tightened incorrectly

SCORE: 8.5 GREAT

 

Featured FFL:

For FFL services I choose Promised Land Firearms in Toulon, IL.

Ryan's Links:

Gun & Gear Review Podcast
Hunter of Design

STYRKA S3 RED DOT

  It is time to tell you about the Styrka S3 Red Dot sight. The S3 Red Dot is your somewhat standard tube style sight. Styrka is a relative new optics manufacturer. The offer a vast selection of shooting and hunting optics in just about any ones price range. 

  After receiving the S3 Red Dot, I first mounted it on an AR15. The S3 comes with a riser mount just for this. The riser is pretty nice looking by itself. But when mounted with the red dot, it leaves a few oddities. One is that the riser is shorter in length than the integrated rail mount on the S3 (see pictures to get a better idea). Also when looking down the sight, you notice that the riser doesn't blend in with the S3's mounting. This is all cosmetic, as the riser mount works well, and the Red Dot mounts snugly to the top of the riser. One nice thing about both the riser and the Red Dot are that they use a torx screw to tighten them to the rails so that there is nothing sticking out the side, like on some mounts with a nut or thumbscrew. Also included is a honeycomb anti glare filter that screws on the front. I can see this helping if hunting animals that might get spooked by glare off of the sight. A neoprene cover and lens cleaning cloth come standard also.

  The S3 Red Dot that I was sent has a 2.5 MOA dot. This size dot works better for more accurate shooting. Styrka also offers a 5 MOA red dot, or a 5 MOA green dot. I like the smaller dot size personally, but a larger dot is also easier to pick up for some people. The dot is adjustable for 6 different brightness levels. To turn on the S3, just push either one of the "+" or "-" buttons, and it will turn on to the last brightness setting. So, of course, to increase or decrease the brightness, just push the appropriate button. One can also hold down the button and it will cycle through the settings until the lowest or brightest setting is reached. To turn the sight off, just hold down both of the buttons for about 3 seconds. If you forget to turn the sight off, don't worry, it will automatically turn off after 1 hour. I would really like this feature, but I envision the sight turning off right before I need to use it. Either while hunting and waiting for game, or while shooting a competition that has different stages. I wouldn't think that setting the auto off at a much higher time, would drastically reduce battery life. Speaking of the battery, it uses a CR2032 and mounts on top of the red dot. The adjustment knobs are covered, and the covers double as an adjustment screw for windage and elevation, both of which are 1 MOA per click.

  Now that the somewhat technical stuff is out of the way, it's on to how it performed. After having it mounted to an AR for awhile, I took it off and mounted it on a 9mm submachine gun. I put around 500 full auto rounds on the S3. It stills adjusts fine and has no adverse problems because of it. When looking through the red dot, the glass is really clear. I say this because on some optics, the coatings tend to tint the colors, but this is not the case with the Styrka. The dot shows up crystal clear, but is a little hard to see in bright sunlight. This only seemed to get worse with the honeycomb filter on. This is strictly a brightness issue, not an optical clarity issue. Another thing to note is that the LED housing is noticeable when looking through the optic. It shows up as a flat in the lower right hand field of view. I only mention it because it was a little distracting. 

  The Styrka Red Dot would probably best be used on something in the "range toy" category due to its auto off function. It does however have some nice features. It holds zero even when getting abused with full auto and has really good clarity. It even comes with a anti-glare filter. However, I feel that it could use a few refinements. Styrka has some really nice products available, all of which have their lifetime warranty and free tune ups and cleaning once a year. 

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Tube style red dot

Target Market:

Anyone looking for a red dot sight

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • 6 brightness adjustments

  • 2.5 MOA Dot size

  • 21mm Objective lens

  • Integrated turret adjustment caps

  • Parallax Free

  • Unlimited eye relief

  • Waterproof

  • Auto Shut Off

  • 1 MOA adjustments

  • Lifetime Warranty w/free tune ups

  • Last setting Brightness return

  • Honeycomb filter

  • Neoprene cover

  • Riser Mount

  • Weighs 5.8 ounces

  • LxWxH in inches -  3.27x1.84x2.11

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

5 MOA dot

5 MOA green dot

What others are saying?:

Michael C. 5/5 stars @ Optics Planet

Awesome Red Dot

This rivals any of its contemporaries in this price range. At 5.3 ounces, it weighs less than other similar options without losing any functionality. The 2.5 MOA version is ideal for close to long range shooting. The dot is crisp and easy for your eye to catch. The glass is ultra clear and just about not there in your sight picture. The sight comes standard with a low mount to mount to your shotgun or "regular" rifle and it also comes with a riser so you can get the correct mounting height for an AR. A lot of red dots come with one mounting height, with risers or rings necessary but this will have everything you need. When using the riser, you don't need to switch out any parts or mounts. You simply mount your sight to the picatinny top of the riser, then the riser to your rifle. The standout feature for this sight is the brightness control. They're large push buttons and are located on the side of the optic instead of a turn knob or depressed buttons. These will be ideal for winter shooting when wearing gloves and just for general ease of use. If you're looking for an affordable, easy to use, quality red dot with all the bells and whistles you'll need, this is the way to go.

Link to other reviews:

Predator Extreme

Price point:

(MSRP versus actual retail)

MSRP = $299.95

Retail = $249.00 @ Styrka

             $249.00 @ Optics Planet

I need it now! Availability:

Styrka or Optics Planet

Our Rating:

Pros: 

  • Comes with honeycomb glare filter
  • Includes high mount
  • Neoprene cover
  • 2.5 MOA dot
  • Clear Dot
  • Clear glass
  • Lifetime warranty and tune ups

Cons:

  • Poor brightness in full sun
  • LED housing is noticeable
  • 1 hour auto off
  • High mount doesn't line up

Score: 6.0 Okay

 

Chad's Favorite Link: Veterans FOB

 

Pachmayr G10 Tactical Pistol Grips

Aftermarket grips is usually the first modification a gun owner looks at to customize their pistol. Its a great way to improve the actual grip texture from the factory, and it also sets their piece apart from others straight off the factory line. 

The Ruger Mark III benefits from a plethora of aftermarket components, but there aren't a lot of actually functional grip panels that aren't covered in zombie green or punisher skulls.

I wanted to find a grip texture similar to that of a pineapple grenade, with wide valleys and plateaus with the aesthetics of G10 and that sexy laminated look. I've seen Pachmayr's 1911 grips in Cabelas, so I was pleased to find they had offerings for the Ruger Mark III on their website.

The Grappler Grip from Pachmayr was a perfect fit for the Mark III, and the thickness added was less than the factory wooden panel. Available is a couple colors, I ordered gray and then used RIT dye to add a tint of color to the material. I used Black powdered dye, hoping to just darken the gray color to closer to a dark gray / black combo. I dunked both panels in the near boiling dye bath for about 1-2 minutes. Be careful if not to shrink the panels with too heat, and screw holes could become misaligned from the frame's posts. The grip turned a bluish hue, which was a happy accident in the end.

The G-10 material didn't take as much of the dye as I thought, compared to popular polymers in the industry. G-10 is a fiberglass based epoxy resin laminate that is extremely tough and durable material, so it makes sense that it resisted the dye solutions because it is impervious to moisture, weather and most chemicals. Thats why its so popular for handgun grips. 

Between the two textures that Pachmayr offers in their G-10 Tactical pistol grips - coarse "Grappler" or fine checkered, I greatly preferred the grappler. No extra frills, and greatly improves the grip of the frame for both gloved and ungloved hands... I like them so much I may be upgrading my other pistols soon!

FIREARMS INSIDER REVIEWS – 8 KEY POINTS

Claim to Fame: Pachmayr G-10 Tactical grips are the toughest, most durable, and best looking grips on the market.

Target Market:  Semiauto Handgun owners looking for aftermarket grips

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • Super tough, durable G-10 material
  • Impervious to moisture, weather or chemicals
  • Attractive color patterns
  • Coarse or checkered textures to suit your shooting or concealment needs
  • Available to fit 1911’s, Sig 238’s and 938’s, Ruger Mk III and 22/45’s, Beretta 92’s, and CZ 75’s.

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?:  Coarse (Grappler) or fine texture; Green/Black or Gray/Black.

WHAT OTHERS ARE SAYING?: 

"These grips are very thin and very textured for a good grip on the gun. I would recommend them and buy again." - Amazon Customer Review

 

PRICE POINT:

I NEED IT NOW! AVAILABILITY:

Website

OUR RATING:

Pros:

  • Perfect fit
  • Course texture not too sharp on edges
  • Edges are tapered and rounded for comfort when gripping
  • Takes Rit Dye (but boiling/dye seems to soften outer layers of laminate, can cause shrinkage if too long)

Cons:

  • Would have been wonderful if new screws were included

SCORE: 7.0 GOOD

Featured FFL:

For FFL services I choose Promised Land Firearms in Toulon, IL.

Ryan's Links:

Gun & Gear Review Podcast
Hunter of Design

STYRKA S7 2.5-15X50 RIFLESCOPE

   There is a new optics manufacturer, that should be on your watch list. It is called Styrka, pronounced Steer-Ka. Being new to the market, I had not heard of them until a few months ago. They offer riflescopes, binoculars, spotting scopes, and red-dots. They sent me a riflescope and a reddot, today we will discuss the S7 2.5-15x50 riflescope. 

Tree at about 400 yds

  When I first received the scope, I noticed all the nice little extras that came with it. Probably my favorite accessory is the scope cover that is in the box. The neoprene scope cover does a nice job protecting the optic when it isn't being used. Also included is a lens cloth, one of the nice ones that you shove back in its holder when not using it. A battery is also supplied for the illuminated reticle, it's a CR2032, so pretty standard.

  I mounted the Styrka on my Savage that is mounted in the MDT chassis reviewed earlier. This scope has really clear glass. Styrka states that the S7 has blackened edges on the lenses to reduce glare and enhance image contrast. Images come through clear with no distortion around the edges, so I guess it works as advertised. The S7 is their "top of the line" scope and has Styrka's SXL-MAX optics coating to reduce glare, add light and color transmission, and give optimum clarity. I used it in low light and some pouring down rain. The scope remained clear out to about 400 yards during this, probably farther, but I couldn't test any farther where I was at. It is also waterproof, fog proof, etc. 

  The S7 2.5-15x50 they sent has an illuminated mil-dot reticle. The illumination is the typical red offered by just about everyone. Styrka also offers this scope in an illuminated duplex reticle, and a non illuminated BDC reticle. Even in all but the brightest days, the illumination is visible. The illumination has 6 brightness settings with an off position between each setting. I really like this feature for the simple fact that it only takes one click to get you to the brightness that one usually uses. The brightness knob is located on the left side, on the end of the parallax adjustment knob, along with the battery compartment. This makes the combination stick out farther then some other scopes, just something to note. The adjustment turrets are capped. Since the S7 is a hunting style scope, this made perfect sense. However, under the caps are some fairly nice target style turrets. These use the standard 1/4 MOA click adjustments. The turrets also can be reset to zero after you have sighted the rifle in. To do this, just loosen the top of the adjustment with a coin, pull the knob up, set to zero, push knob down, and tighten the screw. The turret clicks are extremely crisp and clean, which is a nice touch. 

  One thing I noticed about the S7 is the length. It is longer than I expected for a scope in this zoom range. It is not a problem, just something to consider if mounting it on a short rifle. The scope has a second focal plain reticle, so in order to use the mil-dot, you must turn the zoom all the way to max power, in this case 15x. Don't worry, the scope is quite clear at the full setting. I was really hoping for a first focal plane, but you can't have everything. 

  I really like this range of this scope. At 2.5x, it is low enough magnification to take shots extremely close. Then at 15x, it can still take long shots. I am really glad that Styrka let me try this S7 out. It is extremely clear, easy to adjust, has a lifetime warranty, and you can send it back every year for a free tune up. Give Styrka a look if you are in the market for a nice hunting scope. 

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Hunting scope with Illuminated Mil-dot reticle

Target Market:

Hunters, Target shooters

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • SXL-MAX Fully Multi-Coated Optics
  • 30mm 6061-T6 Aircraft-Grade Aluminum Tube
  • Side Focus Parallax Adjustment
  • Illuminated Reticle
  • Blackened Lens Edges
  • 100% Waterproof
  • Nitrogen Purged
  • Fast Focus Eyepiece
  • 50mm Objective Lens
  • 3.94" Eye Relief
  • Weight of 23.7 ounces
  • (LxWxH) in inches 13.69x3.09x2.37
  • Lifetime Warranty

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

Standard Illuminated Plex Reticle

Ballistic Drop Reticle (BDC)

What others are saying?:

5/5 stars @ OpticsPlanet

Above and Beyond

This scope has performed beyond my expectations. Everything seems well thought out. Love the simple reticle. Holds zero flawlessly and turrets are silky smooth. Well worth the cost of admission. Feels like some of the much more expensive European scopes.

5/5 stars @ Amazon

Outstanding Glass

When delivered, mounted on a S& W M&P 10 .308 with Burris high rings.
Using a laser boresight at 30 yards, scope was within 1/2 inch horizontally and one inch low vertically. Closest I have ever had one from the factory. Glass is clear, adjustments are precise and accurate, and above all east to work with, especially parallax adjustment.
Have fired at ranges to 200 yards, so far, with no loss of accuracy after 400 rounds.
Highly recommend it for a mid priced scope.
Will purchase another for a 5.56.

Link to other reviews:

None to be found

Price point:

MSRP = $814.95

Retail = $679.00 @ Shop Styrka

             $679.00 @ Amazon

I need it now! Availability:

Styrka or Amazon

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Extremely clear for the price

  • Precise turret clicks

  • Reset to zero turrets

  • Turret caps

  • Illuminated reticle

  • Off setting between each illumination setting

  • Neoprene scope cover included

  • Warranty

Cons:

  • 2nd Focal Plane Reticle

  • Parallax and brightness knob stick out pretty far

  • Poor battery life (Battery died after 1 month of being left on brightness position #4)

  • Length of entire scope is almost 14"

Score: 8.00 Great

 

Chad's Favorite Link: Veterans FOB

 

Holosun hs503c micro red dot/circle dot

  Holosun has been around for a while now. Some of their products are innovative in the red dot market. Lets take the HS503C for example. It starts as a red dot, adds in a circle dot option, and then adds in solar power to increase battery life. I contacted Holosun to get one in for review, and they graciously complied. 

  I was intrigued by the 503C's solar power. I will do my best to explain it. The solar panel sits on top of the optic and does not charge the battery. Don't be disappointed though, it runs the circle dot very well. In fact it will actually run the circle dot in daylight, without the battery! When talking with Holosun, they mentioned that the 403C even works better with solar power, and probably would run without a battery in pretty low light, but it is a red dot only. However, when running the 503C on the solar setting, only the circle dot works. The option of having a red dot or circle dot reticle only works on battery power, which was kind of disappointing. When using the battery power, one can switch between the dot or circle dot by holding down the "-" button. To switch between solar and battery, and vis-versa, hold down the "+" button. 

  The HS503C comes with everything you need. When you first open the box, you notice that the red dot is already attached to a riser mount. This gives you a lower 1/3 co-witness with an AR rifle's iron sights. You can remove the riser and put on the supplied low mount if you are mounting it to something that doesn't need the extra height. Also in the box are tools to mount and adjust the sight, a screwdriver to remove and install the battery, a cleaning cloth, and a set of rubber caps. I mounted this one on an AR. One of the big downfalls of this sight are the teeny screws that hold the battery in, make sure you use the proper phillips head screwdriver so as to not strip them out. The HS503C has an industry standard T1 mounting size, so any aftermarket Aimpoint T1 mounts should work, but I would try it beforehand, just in case.

Circle Dot Reticle

Battery Tray partially open

  Now on to some specs. The HS503C has a 2moa dot or a 65moa circle with a central 2moa dot. The adjustments are 1/2 moa with the caps serving as the adjustment screwdriver. Also inside the cap are the markings for up/down and left/right. On the right side is the battery tray, it is held in by 2 screws. Also on the right side is the brightness and on/off buttons. To turn the sight on, push the "+" button, to turn it off, hold down both buttons. In the battery only mode, you can adjust brightness by pushing the "+" or "-" buttons. In solar mode the dot will auto adjust for brightness. There are 9 daylight brightness settings and 2 night vision ones. Holosun states 50,000 hours of runtime with the dot at the 6 setting and 20,000 with the circle dot, so on par with other brands. 

  I have been using the HS503C for some time now. The sight is very clear. The 2moa dot allows for precise engagements. Having the 65moa circle dot is a nice option, and it really shines when shooting up close. But my favorite part is probably the self adjusting solar setting. Even in direct bright sun light, the circle dot was easily visible on the solar setting, the same in low light. I haven't treated the Holosun very nice either, it has been thrown in the back of a pickup a few times, dropped on the ground, and it has held zero. 

  People sometimes ask if I would recommend certain products. The Holosun is on that list. It has done everything I could ask it to do. If your looking for a good mid priced red dot, check them out. 

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Solar and battery powered Micro red dot or circle dot

Target Market:

Anyone wanting a quality combination red dot or circle dot reticle 

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • 2 MOA dot or 65 MOA Circle Dot

  • 20,000 hr battery life with Circle Dot

  • 50,000 hr battery life with 2 MOA dot

  • 9 Daylight and 2 Night Vision brightness settings

  • Waterproof to 1 meter

  • Weighs 4.4 ounces with tall mount

  • 2.6" Tall x 2.5" Long x 1.4 "Wide with tall mount

  • 0.5 MOA adjustments

  • Uses 1 CR2032 battery

  • Operating Temp: 14F to 122F

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

Red dot only (HS403C) 

Protected adjustment knobs (HS503CU)

What others are saying?:

4/5 stars on Amazon

PRICE is awesome for what you get

Let's start with the positives, PRICE is awesome for what you get!!! The glass is really clear and the dot / circle dot are just about perfect. Easy to sight in and it works just as advertised. Best buy for the money hands down. Now there are a couple of fustrating things about it. The battery tray screws trust me these things are tiny and a Philips head to boot put down a white towel when the come loose and hit the ground they disappear. Ask me how I know. A torx bit or hex head would make installation much better. The dot adjustment buttons are smallish and are much easier to use using your trigger hand if you are right handed. This doesn't sound too bad until you try it. I also feel that I'd you like to shoot wearing gloves the size of the pads are just too small. Now that being said I still am extremely happy with this purchase and would and will buy it again.

5/5 Stars on OpticsPlanet

Great little optic

HS503C... Buy it you wont regret it! After looking around and doing research for an optic for my new lightweight AR build I decided to go with the holosun and man I'm glad I did. The HS503C has a Crisp circle reticle and dot amazingly cleaner than the EO tech. I love the option of being able to switch between the 65 MOA circle with a 2 MOA dot and the single red dot. It's easy to zero and function, the solar option is a great feature but the battery life is even better. Bang for buck you can't beat it!

Link to other reviews:

The Truth About Guns

Price point:

MSRP = $282.34 @ Holosun

Retail = $239.99 @ Brownells

             $239.00 @ Amazon

I need it now! Availability:

Holosun, Brownells, or Amazon

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • 65 MOA circle dot

  • 2 MOA dot

  • Lightweight

  • Everything needed comes in the box

  • Good Daylight visibility, even when on Solar power

  • Solar and Battery powered

  • Turret caps double as adjusters for windage and elevation

Cons:

  • Battery Tray screws

  • Operating Temperature seems low

  • 65 MOA circle dot only in solar mode

 

Score:  7.5 Good

 

Chads Favorite Link of the Day: AR-15 Podcast

 

 

StealthGear USA AIWB Holster

I'm not a huge fan of appendix carry, but I love the comfort of StealthGearUSA holsters... so I wanted to give the AIWB a try.

It's time for another inside the waistband holster review, and fortunately for me the quality of the holsters I get to try just keep getting better and better.  This time around I get to take a look at some premium holsters made by StealthGearUSA. SG makes holsters using unique materials that elevate the comfort and longevity of the product far above the conventional holsters of the past. Let's be honest, buying a IWB holster is absolutely brutal.

The AIWB holster came with two belt clips for the option of securing the gun angle.

With every Tom, Dick and Harry cranking out holsters,  all claiming to be "the best," it can be really hard to shop for the right one. You have to decide for yourself, if you are looking for a quick solution that will get you by in a pinch, or a quality rig that's more advanced and comfortable than the rest... which will help you WANT to carry that sidearm everyday.

The AIWB holster boasts the same Ventcore backing as the IWB holsters from StealthGearUSA and it is still one of the most comfortable hoslter backings I have used.

What makes StealthGearUSA holsters stand above the crowd is the use of a breathable, laser-cut ventilation mesh in combination with an integrated moisture shield and padding cells. They call this patented tech VentCore, and it adds up to a more comfortable carry with reduced sweating and irritation after a full day packing heat. The platform's ventilation allows my skin to breathe, keeping it dry and pretty comfortable. This design, and really the whole company, was born out of frustrations from inferior quality IWB holsters. After field testing a bunch of competitor's holsters that each claimed to be the king of comfort, the owner of SG wanted to create a holster more comfortable than a Kydex shell riveted to a piece of leather.

The AIWB is very flat and minimal, theres not unnecessary areas to complicate appendix carry 

All our AIWB holsters now ship with the second clip kit installed on the holster. All VentCore items are handmade to each specific order, we will not sacrifice quality for quantity. Due to high demand, all VentCore items are shipping within 25 days of the order being placed. In the StealthGearUSA™ Appendix Carry IWB Holster we’ve focused on a new level of comfort for smaller handguns and when absolute minimal weight, minimal bulk and minimal printing is required.

The way the posts are located, there's not al ot of support keeping the backing against the trigger guard on the AIWB.

The only thing that troubled me was how easy is it to pry the backing away from the trigger guard and frame, exposing the trigger and posing a risk to the carrier. While its not likely to happen in the real world, especially if you conceal well and draw your firearm before an assailant is in tickling distance, it still bothered me that it was easy to uncover the trigger while the guns still fully seated in its kydex shell.

The Appendix IWB polymer belt clip is mounted above the sight channel, at the edge of the holster. This allows the holster to be rotated slightly up and away from the leg when sitting for long periods of time, or when squatting. With the clip mounted to the side of the main Kydex® body, there is no extra bulk and the print of the holster is significantly minimized. The VentCore® breathable platform in the AIWB holster is custom designed for each individual handgun.

FIREARMS INSIDER REVIEWS – 8 KEY POINTS

Claim to Fame: When seconds count, your holster will perform.

Target Market:  Concealed Carriers specifically interested in appendix carry

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • Ventcore breathable mesh backing
  • Rhinomesh front layer
  • Black Oxide hardware
  • Polymer 2 position clips (Comes with two clips, even though the website shows only one)
  • Width: 4 inches
  • Height: 7.25 Inches
  • Weight: 3.60 oz
  • Custom designed fit for each handgun model
  • 30+ components

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?:  Black, Flat Dark Earth, OD Green

WHAT OTHERS ARE SAYING?: 

"Got my AIWB holster from SGUSA yesterday afternoon so I haven't really put it through the ringer, but I wanted to post my initial thoughts after spending a day and a half with it. I carry pretty much right at 1:00, Im 6'0" and about 190. I wear a tucked polo or fishing shirt with an undershirt and jeans or shorts. Got the holster 21 days after ordering. Initial thoughts Immediately after putting it on I could tell the mesh backing would be awesome and super comfy. Once I put it in my belt and put my gun in I noticed the second clip over the trigger had to go, it blocked me from being able to grab the grip a lot, so much so that I didn't think I would be able to draw at all. Maybe using an Ulticlip or something would fix that but with the poly clips they provide it was really in the way.

Once that was off I got it back on my belt and decided I needed to adjust the ride height. Their clips have two holes so I set it to the absolute highest ride height possible and it was perfect for me. It prints a little more like this but it is still practically invisible on me. I can easily get a full grip and it is out of the way when sitting. Once I got that adjusted I went on with my day. I ran a few errands in my truck and pretty much forgot it was there. No problems getting in and out of the truck, very comfortable while sitting. I can tell this thing really lets some air move. My old holster would be warm after 45 minutes or so and it would cause me to sweat and get sweat on my gun, didn't happen with this one. At the end of the day when I unholstered there wasn't any sweat at all on my gun, a first for me.

Today I put it on first thing and wore it most of the day. It just kept getting better. I laid on the hardwood floor on my stomach to play with my kids and it wasn't uncomfortable at all. I really like it having a single clip up front that will shift as I sit and stand and walk. There is a spot on my groin that needs to get used to having something right there but that is to be expected and isn't painful at all. Again no sweat after wearing it all day.

I'll put it through the ringer over the next few weeks and post a month in review. Right now I say if you are on the fence and carry AIWB (can't we just call it AC?) then I say 100% get it. It is worth the money. TLDR summary: have worn for 36 hours and it's amazing. You know that feeling when you dig something out of your eye or something and everything is suddenly right with the world and its sweet sweet relief? That is this holster from the second you put it on. 10/10" - Reddit User Review

PRICE POINT:

  • MSRP: $94 standard, $119-$134 for the AIWB+ holster w/ integrated mag pouch

I NEED IT NOW! AVAILABILITY:

Website

OUR RATING:

Pros:

  • Combines lightweight breathability with strength and retention
  • Cant adjustable
  • Website makes selecting gun make, model, light/laser accessory and left/right hand super fast and easily.

Cons:

  • Because design omits an anchor point under the trigger guard, the backing and shell can flex apart revealing an uncovered trigger and an accidental discharge possibility (foreign object gets wedged, or if a struggle results in opponent reaching for gun in holster)
  • Mesh fabric on backing can fray from aggressive use during training. This is a carry holster, not necessarily a training holster.
  • Current lead times are 25 days due to demand, materials / production time

SCORE: 6.0 OKAY

 

Featured FFL:

For FFL services I choose Promised Land Firearms in Toulon, IL.

Ryan's Links:

Gun & Gear Review Podcast
Hunter of Design

Alex & Ryan Design Kydex Light Bearing Holster

I first heard of Alex and Ryan Design from my friend who bought a cuff holster from them. I looked into them a little bit and sent a few emails back and forth. After getting their advice(they answer their own email) I ordered the holster featured here and a double mag holster for IWB. I very promptly received an email from Alex saying that he thought it’d be more comfortable if I had 2 single mag holsters.

IMG_0508.JPG

I went with his recommendation as he’s the expert. When I received the product I was a little shocked that it came in a plastic shipping bag as opposed to a box but my fears were immediately set aside as I inspected the holsters for damage. They’re definitely strong and durable to travel through the postal system unscathed. I grabbed my Glock 19 with Inforce APL and quickly, yet safely, inserted it into the holster, and then the whole contraption into my pants. I decided that it needed more retention so I removed it and tightened it with a coin, like many other smart designs allow. After some trial and error I got it to a retention level that I felt comfortable with.

The inside of the holster is smooth and allows for quick retrieval of your weapon while the outside has the familiar feel of kydex, rough yet soft. Wearing this has been a breeze and comfort has never been an issue. I've since wore it to two weddings, one of which I was a groomsmen, and no one had a clue. I recently tripped while running and the holster held up, kept my firearms secure, and only suffered some light scratches. A nice thing about its design is that I’ve successfully carried this setup as appendix, on the hip, behind the hip, and small of back positions. The clip on it is very sturdy yet still flexible to enough to bend far beyond any belt they can accommodate. I’m unsure of a way to make it any better without the addition of adjustable cant.

Claim to Fame: Comfortable and quality holster

Target Market: Concealed carriers

FNBs:

  • Custom made to your setup
  • Many firearms choices
  • Adjustable retention
  • 10 degree cant optional(non light bearing)
  • Options for different lights
  • Suppressor sights chanel optional
  • Optional lifetime warranty on all parts and hardware
  • 3 different sweat guard heights

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

There are too many for me to list so here’s a couple cool ones: Multicam, Tiffany Blue, 9 Kryptek designs, classic black, and many more.

What others are saying?

You can find reviews on their site for this holster

Price point:

$48.99 and up depending on options chosen. $65.99 as designed in this review.

I need it now! Availability:

It’s a custom made product so it takes 2-3 weeks to produce depending on their other orders. There is an option for rush orders and they’ll ship in 3-5 business days.

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Tough design, .080 thickness
  • 100% American made using American made hardware and equipment
  • Full combat grip
  • Easy reholstering (kydex retains weapon shape)

Cons:

  • Preset 0° cant on light bearing, 0° or 10° degree cant on non light bearing
  • Neutral: At the time, it wasn’t offered at Appendix with RCS claw. It is now offered as such.

Score 8.5

 

Bushnell TrophyCam HD Aggressor

Try to charge an art major extra for a camo dipped product? Think again!

Try to charge an art major extra for a camo dipped product? Think again!

Hunting season is upon us, and I'd like to review a piece of gear I used heavily last year that directly led to a successful harvest. I'm talking about trailcams, short for Trail Cameras but also known as Game Cams. First off, I'd like to say I am amazed at the technological leap these cameras have made in the last ten years.  Not only the resolution, but the features they manage to cram into these cameras is incredible. Most of them are better quality than my actual camera, let alone a high end camera phone. The Bushnell TrophyCam HD Aggressor is no exception, and I've got the pictures to prove it!

The trail camera market is really competitive, with dozens of brands popping up in the last 5 years. I ended up picked up the Bushnell TrophyCam HD Aggressor, only after trying a Stealth Cam G series and breaking the plastic latch on the door the first day. I wasn't completely satisfied with the image quality either, so I promptly returned it and opted to give the Bushnell a try. The Aggressor caught some good shots of my buck, as well as plenty of does and fawns, and even a few coyotes

Why use a trail camera?

An old hunter once told me "If you want a big buck, you've got to put time in the field. You won't make that payday if you don't punch the time clock." While there are those guys who are in the right place at the right time, and end up bagging a monster within a hundred yards of where they parked their truck, that just isn't me. Not because of pride or self-righteousness... but because I'm just not that lucky. To me, hunting is a lot like fishing: you really have to be in the right place at the right time to catch something with quality and maturity. However there are quite a few tools and techniques to improve your odds and help you position yourself in the right moment with the right equipment to seal the deal. There's nothing dirty about it, the cameras can't shoot and dress the game themselves... the user still has to put the effort in.

The advantages game cameras offer are huge. Obviously getting to see what animals are in the area is the main benefit, but the data you get from the camera really helps you get quickly dialed into that location. Not only can you see the number of bucks in the area and the points/size of the animal, but you get a timestamp every time they trip the camera. You should start to see a pattern of when that particular animal is moving down that trail, what direction they're coming from, and what direction are they going.  If you strap the camera to one tree and only checking the footage weekly, your results will be extremely limited unless you found the honeyhole on the first try. I moved the camera around every 4-5 days until I started to catch antlers on screen, often times using it to be in two places at once, while I sat on a trail in a treestand while the camera kept an eye on another possible route.

What I've found is that deer can be just as unpredictable as they can be predictable. Meaning there are times when a buck's routine shifts, and unless you are out every minute of the day to witness and document that behavior, stumbling across a bruiser on opening day is really a stroke of pure luck. All bucks go into the rut during certain known times of the year, but sometimes blacktails can also switch to a nocturnal mode in which their movement patterns shift until after legal shooting hours ended, and you'll never see them again til after the seasons over.

My 2015 Hunt

The little wooded oasis I hunt isn't huge, but most years it becomes a highway for lots of blacktail bucks in the area to cross around. Most aren't legal, some just barely legal and very few are 3-4 years old and stand out from the rest. After being clearcut and allowed to regrow just a few years ago, it has become ideal habitat for browsing, with no pressure from predators or other hunters. The issue is that the bucks don't show up until about mid-month, leaving a short window until the season ends a couple weeks later. With the wrong combination of weather and lunar cycle, the bucks often come out later and later until they're only active at night. I know this, because I would stake out a few well used game trails until after dusk with no activity, only to return and see prints, scrapes, and droppings the next morning.

This is the buck I ended up harvesting. He was pretty predictable in his activity, and tasted delicious.

This is the buck I ended up harvesting. He was pretty predictable in his activity, and tasted delicious.

Using the Aggressor, I was able figure out which trail was more frequently used by a deer, and I knew when the bucks had started to arrive in the area and about what hour of the day. I was currently working at a Cabela's about 40 minutes away from the hunting spot at the time, and the buck on my radar was consistently making his rounds around 6:00PM. I would get off at 5:30PM, and by the time I'd get to the spot he was already there and gone. The day before the season ended, I got off at 5, raced home and was able to get setup where he walked right to me. Game over!

The Aggressor

The Bushnell TrophyCam Aggressor performed best at night, when the contrast of the dark background and the IR flash reflecting off the animals makes for crisp shapes. It does come in Low-Glow and No-Glow models. The difference is pretty nominal, some animals may see the low glow and shy away from the camera, and bugs like moths will see the glow and tend to be drawn toward it, triggering the camera. I didn't want to skimp on brightness of flash so I went with the Low-Glow model. 

During the day I found the brightness and contrast to be okay, but not as great as I would have liked. I did have to tweak the settings to get a good balance of night time flash without blowing out the animals in white, as well as adjusting the sensitivity so a branch moving in the wind didn't set off a bunch of shots and waste battery and memory. Being in Washington State, it got rained on consistently, and was exposed to freezing temperatures every night and warm sun during the day. They say in my state: "If you don't like the weather, just wait an hour." Fortunately this Trailcam is robust enough to survive those conditions.

Several reviews on the Aggressor complain about the picture quality during pre-dawn and pre-dusk where images appear dark during day to night transition under certain lighting conditions (cloud cover). Bushnell has a firmware update to fix the issue and improve performance at all levels during this critical time for trail cams to perform. Please encourage users to follow the link below to find out if they require this update. Click here to download firmware update.

Here is what the high NV flash setting looks like. I had to experiment a couple nights to find the optimum setting that didn't blow out the contrast.

The conditions the camera sucked at was fog or mist. Even in the hours before dawn, the flash just bounces off the moisture in the air and makes everything blown out. I had set the NV flash level down to medium/normal, and left it there the rest of the season. The menu is easy enough to use on the Aggressor's backlit LED screen. You can also choose between photos only, video only, or "Hybrid Capture" mode where a it snaps a full res photo quickly followed by a video.

I didn't use the Field Scan 2X mode much, because the trails I set the camera on were pretty close quarters. Field Scan mode is a mode where you preset 2 time slots during the day for the camera to capture time lapse images as well as trigger-activated images, presumably at dawn and dusk when deer are most active. 

The advertised fast trigger speed is as promised. The camera can freeze birds in mid flight. The sensitivity and interval between shots can be adjusted to avoid repeated shots of grass and branches swaying in the wind, which I did end up doing after the first night of footage filling up a 2GB card. The delay settings are pretty useful, letting you stall the camera between 1-60 seconds between each shot, and then 1 min intervals above that. At its fastest setting it can snap 2-3 pictures in under 5 seconds. Most cameras under $200 don't have that customizability in shutter delay.

Overall, I have been pleased with the Aggressor having only forked over $150 after using some discount codes at Bass Pro Shops. While it lacks the convenience of a picture viewer and wireless capabilities, it was an excellent choice for a first camera and I look forward to putting in out in the field again this year.

 

FIREARMS INSIDER REVIEWS - 8 KEY POINTS

CLAIM TO FAME:

The Trophy Cam HD Aggressor's are exactly what hunters have been waiting for.

TARGET MARKET:

All Hunters

FNBS (FEATURES & BENEFITS OF THIS PRODUCT):

  • 14 Megapixel Resolution

  • Video Resolution:1920x1080p

  • Video Length:Up to 60s w/ audio

  • Anti-Reflection shield

  • SD Card Capacity: 32 GB

  • Field Scan 2X

  • Freeze Frame anti-blur setting for the NV shutter

  • Hybrid Capture Mode

  • IR Sensor: Low/Med/High/Auto

  • Low Glow LEDs for invisible infrared flash

  • B&W Text LCD Display

  • Date/Time/Temp/Moon Stamp

  • GPS Geotagging

  • Powered by AA batteries (4-8)

  • Battery Life:Up to 1 Year

  • Solar Compatible

  • Includes adjustable web belt

  •  1/4-20 threaded socket for installation on mounts or tripods.

WHAT OTHER AESTHETIC OPTIONS OR FINISHES ARE AVAILABLE?

Solid Dark Green, or Camo Dipped for extra $$$

WHAT OTHERS ARE SAYING?:

"I am sorry that another reviewer had a bad camera/experience. My 14MP Aggressor has worked very well. I have had mine running for about a week. I have it in my back yard, centered on a set of bird feeders. I want to check out the night visitors. So far during the day it has taken excellent color pictures and videos (with sound) and excellent black and white pictures and videos at night (with sound- you can hear the tree frogs chirping). At night it picked up a small rabbit that came into the field of view (FOV) at 25 feet, and two different raccoons at the same range. It also picked up my wife at night at about 40 feet as she entered the FOV. I have uploaded 4 pics, 2 day (note how small the targets were that triggered it) and 2 night. Since it is hot out, I have it on High sensitivity and Medium shutter speed. I like the embedded moon phase, temp, date and time. It also embeds lat/long, but that is not printed on the picture. Once I understood the set-up instructions, it was easy to get going and is now very easy to change the “parameters.” I like it so much that I have ordered a second one to monitor the entrance to the back of house that has its motion-sensor light go off occasionally. I appreciate that the camera can be set to take pictures in the day or night or both. I have it installed in a camlockbox mounted to a tree using a camlockbox heavy duty universal swivel bracket secured with a Master Lock Python. The combination works well for me. Some of my pictures were a little blurry after a hard rainstorm. They were OK after another rain. I have since installed a camlockbox rain hat which has good reviews." B. Hart, Amazon User

LINK TO OTHER REVIEWS:

chasingame.com review

PRICE POINT:

(MSRP versus actual retail)

MSRP = $179.99 solid color, $199.99 for RealTree Xtra camo

Retail = $149.01 Amazon

I NEED IT NOW! AVAILABILITY:

Amazon, Cabelas, Bass Pro Shops

OUR RATING:

Pros:

  • Latch is rigid and large
  • External power compatible
  • Gasket seals out moisture
  • Crispness and brightness of Night photos are fantastic
  • Shutter speed is as fast as Bushnell claims
  • Sensitivity and Delay settings to maximize efficiency

Cons:

  • Batteries are exposed when retrieving the SD card / changing settings
  • The wide angle screen mode cuts off about 40% of the vertical picture of a full screen, and the full screen picture mode has all of the horizontal info of the "wide screen picture." So what's the point?
  • 80ft sensor range is more like 30 ft at night.
  • Pre-dawn and pre-dusk times suffer from confused flash (get the firmware update)
  • Lock and cable loops are plastic and thin
  • Would be great to select variable flash brightness for daytime vs night

SCORE: 6.5 OKAY

Featured FFL:

For FFL services I choose Promised Land Firearms in Toulon, IL.

Ryan's Links:

Gun & Gear Review Podcast
Hunter of Design

Osborn TacticalTuck IWB holster

  So a few months ago I was looking for an IWB holster for a SCCY pistol. I was specifically looking for a hybrid style and ran across Osborn Holsters out of Texas. They pretty much only offer hybrid style holsters. Some of them even have a mag carrier built in with the holster. I chose the standard style without the extra mag carrier. Osborn sent it to me for review and it arrived quite quickly. 

   I have been wearing the TacticalTuck since it arrived about 2 1/2 months ago. The holster is dyed a redish brown color. Osborn holsters informed me that dyed holsters resist sweat better, but I notice now they offer a moisture barrier for an extra few bucks. It can also be had in natural or black leather. 

  The TacticalTuck has been one of the most comfortable holsters I have worn. It uses a very flexible leather backing with a kydex outer shell.  This has its pros and cons. On the positive, it is super comfortable. On the negative, it is hard to reholster because it pushes in toward the kydex, somewhat collapsing the pocket that the firearm goes in. As long as you pay attention and reholster slowly, it works out fine. The outer shell is molded for your firearm. And they have lots of models to choose from. Osborn does a nice job on the shell. My firearm fits good, there are no sharp corners and the molding around the gun is done nicely. The shell is also adjustable for tension with 4 screws that press on rubber washers. All the hardware screws use a smooth, chicago style, backing nut. 

   Osborn supplies their holsters with metal belt clips. These clips are some of the sturdiest clips I have used. The TacticalTuck has 2 belt clips to give a sturdy attachment of the holster. The clips have bumps on them that help them stay on around the belt. I had zero problems with the loops coming off. In fact, they clip on so well that it actually takes some effort to get them off of the belt. I like these clips, but every metal clipped holster I have used, causes my shirts to wear out. Especially around the rearward clip, when sitting in chairs alot, the clip rubs through the shirt.  

  Being that this is a hybrid style holster, it offers plenty of adjustments. Each belt loop has 4 adjusting holes. So by moving them up or down individually one can adjust ride height and/or cant of the holster. Each one of the holes has been riveted, so adjustment is easy and the holes should not wear out. Osborn also cuts the backing leather for the individual firearm. This is a nice touch, as other companies sometimes just use 3 or 4 different backings. 

  Osborn makes a nice holster. It has some good features and a few so-so ones. But if your in the market for a very comfortable hybrid holster. Give Osborn Holsters a look. 

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Hybrid style IWB holster

Target Market:

Concealed carriers

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • Hybrid style (leather back, kydex shell) 
  • Firearm Model availability
  • Adjustable retention
  • Steel belt clips
  • Tuckable 
  • Adjustable ride height
  • Adjustable cant
  • Made In U.S.A.

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

Natural or Black

With mag carrier combo

What others are saying?:

 Good Holster

Mike @ Osbornholsters.com 4/5 stars

Overall it is a good holster. I like the adjustability of ride hight and the quality is great. My only complaint so far is the retention. I have tightened the screws as far as they will possibly go and the leather seams to relax the more I wear it loosing the retention. I have bottomed out the screws and not sure where to go from here.

 

Great Options for Rail-Mounted Lights

Z @ Osbornholsters.com 4/5 stars

Pros: * Overall solid build quality and features.* If you have a weapon-mounted light (and you should), there are more options available on this holster than with most other vendors.Cons: * Had to cut off some leather to allow my middle finger to get under the trigger guard on the draw. * Then had to trim a bit of kydex to allow my middle finger to index under the trigger guard on the draw without scraping it on kydex every time.

Getting a consistent and proper grip is paramount. The strong hand should ride high and tight into the backstrap/beavertail, and the middle finger should ride high and tight into the trigger guard. Google "maximizing the combat handgun grip" for more info. Just trim the leather and kydex a bit to allow this the moment you grip the pistol and you have a product that can't really improve much further.

Link to other reviews:

Four Guys Guns

Concealed Nation

Price point:

MSRP = $49.99

I need it now! Availability:

Osborn Holsters

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Comfortable
  • Adjustable retention
  • Adjustable cant
  • Adjustable ride height
  • Quality molding
  • Tuckable

Cons:

  • Collapsible holster mouth 
  • Metal clips

Score: 7.5 Good

 

Chad's Favorite Link: The 22 Connection

 

AAC Blastout

A lot of shooters have trouble understanding what the point of a blast diffuser is... in an industry where anything that can be bolted to a gun is brought to market, its common to be skeptical of something new.  Most will say "if you want to reduce the muzzle blast, why wouldn't I just remove my muzzle brake, or just use a suppressor?" Don't have a suppressor? Then why have a 51t mount muzzle device at all?

Well my scenario is that while I'm waiting for a suppressor approval from the BATFE, I already installed a 51 tooth muzzle brake from AAC on my bullpup rifle in preparation for the compatible can. AAC offers a few different muzzle devices that are 51t compliant, but I chose the BlackOut Muzzle Brake for the reduction in muzzle rise.

I installed the 51t BlackOut Brake on my IWI Tavor in anticipation for a M4-2000 5.56 suppressor.

The effectiveness of the BlackOut Brake has the side effect of concussive forces jetting out from the sides, both causing increased decibels to bystanders, ands spraying carbon, copper and other particulates on my support arm and the nearby area. Those factors multiply when shooting in a confined space like a hallway or a vehicle.

The BlastOut is angled like a stealth aircraft, which looks good aesthetically but also helps with leverage during installing and removing.

Thats why I was excited when AAC announced their BlastOut device. While the suppressor sits in "NFA jail" it allowed my to try the 51t ratchet system for myself, and get to benefit from the forward projection of muzzle blast and saving the ears of those who shoot next to me at the range. Installation is a breeze, just insert over the 51t device and start tightening until the ratcheting sound stops and the BlastOut bottoms out.

The 51t (or 90t) ratchet system is easy to use.

Just insert and twist a few rotations til it stops.

For those prohibited from owning a suppressor, the BlastOut gives some of the same advantages. First off, the BlastOut throws alot of the report downrange and away from the shooter's ears. It won't make the rifle hearing safe without ear pro, but it takes a little of the bark out. To the friendlies standing on either side of you, it's definitely a measurable improvement. And for those with AR/AK pistols or SBRs, the BlastOut helps tame the increased blast from the shorter barrel and unburned powder.

The BlastOut also gives you an idea of how much clearance is going to be needed before you get to take possession of your suppressor, incase you want a flashlight or other accessory near the muzzle.

Secondly, it doesn't affect the performance of the muzzle device it's installed on. If you're running a flash suppressor, the signature from the muzzle flash will still be minimal. If you're running a muzzle brake, the upward recoil will still be reduced. A lot of folks speculate that since it redirects forces forward, that the rearward recoil will be increased. It's not necessarily false, but in my testing the rearward forces felt and appeared to be identical with and without the BlastOut installed on an AAC BrakeOut muzzle device.

Third and final, it looks pretty damn tactical.

For the price point, I can see why some gun owners would rather spend $150 on something else worth while for their rifle (ammo, training, optics, etc.). But for those who are waiting on their AAC suppressor to be approved, or just enjoy using AAC's muzzle devices, the BlastOut is a great addition to the range bag.

Firearms Insider Reviews – 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:  The BlastOut encloses the gas exhaust ports of the muzzle device and shields the shooter and nearby personnel from the concussive effects of lateral and rearward escaping muzzle gasses.

Target Market: AR-15, AK-47 and other rifle owners

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • 51T Ratchet or 90T Taper Mount
  • Weighs only 6 oz.
  • 2.5" length
  • 1.50" body outside diameter, 1.57" at the latch
  • Nitride Finish

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?: Black Only

What others are saying?: Couldn't find any 3rd party reviews yet

Heres a Brownells Spotlight video

Price point:

I need it now! Availability: AAC website, MidwayUSA, Brownells, Roughneck Firearms (cheapest)

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Works on all existing AAC 51-tooth mounts regardless of caliber and device type (flash hider, compensator, or brake) or 90-tooth mounts if you get the 90T Blastout
  • Ratchet attachment can be heard and felt
  • Design incorporates flats and finger grooves to assist in grip for securing/removing
  • Directs gasses, lead and other debris forward
  • Something to attach to your gun while you are waiting for your NFA stamp, or while you swapped the can onto another firearm.

Cons:

  • Expensive (although still cheaper than a Surefire Warden)
  • Lead exposure increases greatly as debris starts to build up inside the tube

Score: 8.5 Great

Featured FFL:

For FFL services I choose Promised Land Firearms in Toulon, IL.

Ryan's Links:

Gun & Gear Review Podcast

Hunter of Design

Leatherman Skeletool

I'm a big fan of pocket knives as EDC or Every Day Carry gear, especially when they have additional features that expand the utility of the tool. Multitools are great, but often they are chunky because of all the different tools incorporated within the handle. Try carrying something like that in your pants pocket all day and you'll quickly get tired of the uncomfortable bulge and extra weight. I usually keep them on the desk drawer or toss them in the toolbox and neglect them until I can't find the right screwdriver or other tool I need, and I've become desperate.

The Leatherman Skeletool is a unique multitool that really fits into the EDC role well. Folded, the Skeletool has a carabiner style clip that makes it easy to hitch a ride on your belt loop or keychain / lanyard. Its a very skeletized design, which makes the overall weight fairly light. It has a hinged plier design like other popular Leatherman multitools, but minimalist approach to the onboard tools keeps the profile slimmer and more pants or jacket pocket friendly.

Before opening the Skeletool up, its worth mentioning the exterior tools that are available while its in the closed mode. First, the carabiner clip doubles as a very handy bottle opener. The stainless finish will also make rinsing off beer easier if you have a party-foul that could lead to sticky hands later.

The second feature is the blade that is very easy to deploy one handed via a thumbhole. The blade is 2.5" long with a unique sway design and a drop-point that is suitable for puncturing jobs, and a nice edge that arrived pretty sharp out of the box. With a hardness of 420HC I've found the blade to hold it's edge well over time, although I sharpen all my blades every few months anyway. I've been careful with the tip as to not torque it horizontally during odd jobs, and after 7 years of moderate use it's still nice and pointy.

When you spread the Skeletool's handles apart, the plier jaws are exposed as well as the bit driver on the non-carabiner clip arm. The opposite arm has integral storage of a second double-headed bit for the driver.

The plier jaws are approximately 2" long and have about half an inch of a flat nose with serrated surfaces, a squared off nose and deep teeth along with a wire cutter. The plier head itself feels a bit thicker than other multitools I've owned, and the hinges are well designed and feel reinforced. Usually the breaking point of a multitool is the hinge point when the operator squeezes with too much force, resulting in the tool separating itself in two halves. This has not happened to me and my Skeletool, because I know when the job at hand requires a more appropriate set of pliers. These are not meant to loosen the lugs on your flat tire! Use the tool between your ears before using a pocket tool on a heavy duty job.

While the Skeletool looks awkward to grip in the plier mode, its actually pretty usable. Leaving a bit in the driver may cause you to stab the heel of your hand if you've got large mits, so keep that in mind. The knife blade stays stowed and protected in this mode, but its handy to be able to use the bit driver in this mode if whatever task your are doing requires gripping or prying/screwing.

The bit driver mode isn't the most ergonomic screwdriver in the world, but it does get the job done. When inserted, the bit is locked into the drive via a detent so it won't fall out from gravity or get stuck in valley of the screw head. When you want to swap bits, there is a serrated thumb lever that releases the detent. For how small the parts are I'm actually surprised how well thought out Leatherman put into this design. The included bits are proprietary to Leatherman and won't fit in your other drivers. However they are double sided, being the same type just one larger and one smaller. I find the integrated storage slot for the unused bit to be very cool and convenient, and more importantly secure. In all the years I've beat this thing around, I've never had the stored bit come loose or fall out unintentionally from its friction fit little compartment.

Overall the Skeletool is extremely portable, but it lacks additional tools beyond the basics. Some may find the features underwhelming if you find yourself needing hex/star wrenches, scissors, files, or other tools. While there are other compatible bit heads available from Leatherman, I've never personally seen the need for them. I do own other multitools, for jobs like maintenance on a compound bow or a modern sporting firearm. You could of course just order the extra bits and swap out the secondary for a bit you find more useful in your day to day life. The purpose of the Skeletool is to cover the essentials and be more convenient to keep with you on a regular basis, and I think it really succeeds at that role.

Firearms Insider Reviews – 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:  The Leatherman Skeletool is an ultra lightweight, bare-bones multitool equipped with all the tools you need.

Target Market: Everybody

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • Weighs only 5 oz.
  • 2" Pliers and wire cutters
  • Bit driver with four bits
  • Drop-point knife
  • Carabiner/bottle opener
  • Removable pocket clip for easy carry
  • Stainless steel 420HC drop-point blade
  • Length 4"

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?: Stainless, Tan, Green, Blue anodizing as well as serrated or non-seratted blade. Other models are now available with glass breakers, seatbelt cutters, and carbon fiber handles.

What others are saying?: "One really slick bit of engineering is that as you close the tool, the bit fits neatly inside the frame around the carabiner. Speaking of the carabiner, I rarely find myself using it. Clipping it to a belt loop makes for an awkward carry since the tool is too short to ‘tuck’ into a pocket that way and it sort of pokes out a bit for me. I prefer using the spring clip in a back pocket… until I noticed that the protruding head was catching on things like my car seat. This is not really a design flaw, but it bothers me enough that I stopped carrying it for now (I will re-evaluate when I get the case, which I still have not ordered.)

My ‘wish list’ for the Skeletool is pretty short. I wish it had a detent that held the tool so you could use the bit at right angles for more power, and I wish it could carry bits and the extender more easily without the case, perhaps some sort of ‘snap-on bandoleer’-like device. I also wish there was a version with scissors – I use the scissors on my Juice S2 quite a bit – although I would not want to give up the light weight and small size of the Skeletool for them.

Overall, this is a solidly-built smaller multitool that feels great in your hand or pocket. It has not quite replaced my Juice S2- but it well might if/when I order the extension bit, bit kit, and case." -The Gadgeteer Review

Price point:

  • Retail: $69.85

I need it now! Availability: Leatherman Dealers, Direct from Leatherman

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Knife can be deployed without opening entire tool
  • Self storage of the extra bit
  • Bit driver locks in bit head with detent, easy thumb lever to release
  • Curved handle fits palm of hand contour
  • Slim enough to fit in pockets, rangebags, glove boxes or clipped elsewhere
  • Handles never contact each other when pliers jaws are full closed/squeezed, preventing excess force and leverage that could cause damage

Cons:

  • Tools are minimal, more bits sold seperately
  • One of the main screws of hinge came loose over time, had to use locktite and retighten with another tool (star head)
  • Leaving a bit in the driver while using the pliers could injure your hand via stabbing or puncture, if the user's hands are large.

Score: 8.5 Great

 

Featured FFL:

For FFL services I choose Promised Land Firearms in Toulon, IL.

Ryan's Links:

Gun & Gear Review Podcast

Hunter of Design

ODIN Works ATLAS 5 Compensator

   Odin Works has been making quality AR parts for many years. The new ATLAS compensator is no different. Odin works was kind enough to send me the ATLAS 5 for review, they also sent me an O2 light handguard that I reviewed earlier. 

  I was curious about the ATLAS after we had talked about it on episode 136 of the Gun & Gear Review Podcast. After receiving the ATLAS 5, I immediately took it apart into it's 3 sections. Basically you have an inner compensator, that would probably work by itself, an outer shell, and a nut to hold it all together. The inner comp is made from 416 stainless steel and the outer comp shell is made from titanium. 

  Now onto installation of the ATLAS. Assuming that you have already taken off your old muzzle device. All you need to do is screw on the inner muzzle body on and tighten it with a 7/8" wrench. No crush washers or shims needed. Then slide the outer shell over the body with the index mark pointed up. Now tighten the nut on, also with a 7/8" wrench. Then there are 3 set screws, on the end of the nut, that you tighten down with the supplied wrench. These help keep everything locked in place. After you have adjusted the brake like you want, I would put some threadlocker on them. To time the brake, loosen the set screws and the nut, then turn the outer shell slightly toward the recoil impulse, and tighten it down again. So if the muzzle jumps slight up and right, turn the shell right. One can also drill the top hole in the Atlas shell out larger if timing it doesn't do enough for you. But go slow, you don't want to go too far.  I didn't like how I had to use a 7/8" wrench. The standard is a 3/4" and it would have been nice to be able to use a standard AR tool for the adjustments. 

  How does it work? Well, it works pretty good. It is not the best that I have used, but it is far from the worst. It does reduce muzzle rise, and can be drilled out for your particular load. It reduces the felt recoil down alot. It seemed to work better on my 16" then my 11.5". But it still worked okay on the shorty. It resides on the shorty for now. The reason, because once it it timed for a particular rifle, it doesn't need anything else. So I can just unscrew it, screw the suppressor on, and vise-versa. 

  The ATLAS 5 comp is really a trade off. On one side, it is easily adjusted, but on the other side, it doesn't work quite as well as some other comps. But with all that said, it is really nice for someone that removes their comp alot and still wants something that actually works as a comp. Go check out Odin Works, even if your not in the market for a comp, they probably have something you want. 

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Adjustable rifle compensator that does not use crush washers or shims for timing

Target Market:

AR-15 users who want a compensator that can be adjusted (timed) easily

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • 3-piece design

  • Stainless steel and Titanium sleeve

  • 1/2-28 Threads

  • 2.56" long

  • 1" Diameter

  • Weighs 4.1 ounces

  • Available in 7.62 also

  • Made in USA

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

Atlas 7 (7.62/.30 Cal)

What others are saying?:

Chris @ OdinWorks: 5/5 stars

Easy install works awesome

Easy peasy install took about 2 minutes on my Del-Ton AR15. At the range was truly awesome. Was back on target so fast due to so much less recoil I was shocked. I was slightly high right, made an adjustment to the break not my scope and boom dead on sub MOA at 100 yards, I had not done that before with this rifle. 

 

Eric @ JoeBobOutfitters: 4/5 stars

Excellent Tunable Flash Hider

The Odin Atlas was incredibly easy to install and doesn't require a crush washer which is a big plus. As long as it is tight, it doesn't really matter what configuration the holes line up like.
Tightening down the cap with the three screws secures it perfectly and the outer sheath around the main body really does help tune your rifle from left and right movements. 
It does a great just of reducing flash as well. Overall, I find this flash hider/compensator to be outstanding.

Link to other reviews:

Sootch00 @ Full30

Price point:

(MSRP versus actual retail)

MSRP = $99 @ Odin Works

Retail = $94.05 @ Brownells

I need it now! Availability:

Odin Works or Brownells

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Easily Adjustable

  • No Crush Washer or Shims needed

  • Good at keeping muzzle on target

  • Reduces Recoil

Cons:

  • Doesn't use standard 3/4" wrench 

  • Loud (but it is a compensator) 

  • Didn't come with instructions. Must go to Odin works faq

Score: 7.5 Good

 

 

Chad's Favorite Link: Veterans Forward Operating Base (VFOB)

 

Amend2 AR-15 Magazine

   Amend2 is a new company that has entered into the AR-15 magazine market. Having another option in the AR magazine market is always a good thing. Amend2 offers mainly standard capacity magazines of 30 rounds in 5.56/.223, but also lists a 20 round option. I was sent the 30 round black ones for review. 

  I was pretty excited to try these mags out. And since I was going to a big shoot, the timing was perfect. When the mags first arrived, I immediately checked them to see if they would drop free. All of the ones they sent me, hit the floor when the mag release was pressed. This was even in a rifle that will hang up on some other magazines. Of course,  the Amend2 mags also locked back the slide, as expected. One thing I noticed is that the magazines seemed heavier than both my mil-spec and P-mags, but they actually weigh really close to the P-mags. Don't get discouraged by this, because they are made from a tough polymer. I did toss one across the road and it had only very minor scratches. Then I drove over it, both loaded with empty cases and unloaded completely. I really just wanted to see if it would crack, but it didn't. The baseplate on the mag is slightly larger than some and has a checkerboard texture on the bottom. This is a good thing if you drop your mags a lot on hard surfaces. It also helps when retrieving them from a pouch. As with essentially all good magazines, they have anti-tilt followers and stainless steel springs. 

  You probably really want to know how they function? Okay. Two of the magazines were run in full auto AR's, all day. I don't have an actual round count, but it was over 1000 rounds per magazine, probably more like 2000 each. One magazine ran flawless with no problems at all. The other one had 1 failure to feed. I would say these magazines are good to go for anything that you would want to use them in. I have also been using these magazines when I need to use an AR mag, with no problems. I have also ran them suppressed, in an SBR. 

 Currently,  Amend2 offers the magazines with some options. They come in black, OD green, and tan. The anti-tilt follower and base pad insert are red. According to their website, other magazine colors are also available: Zombie green, Ghost white, Dark earth, and Desert tan. But it is a little confusing, I don't know if they mean magazine body color, or magazine follower color. While surfing Amend2's Instagram, I noticed that they can also do custom nameplates for dealers, or maybe anyone if you purchase enough of them. It appears that "Amend2" on the mag body is replaced with "your company logo/name". 

  I have been quite impressed with these magazines. Amend2 has done a good job with the durability and function. The price is on par with other 30 round magazines. So, if you are looking for some more magazines, and aren't we all, give the Amend2 mags a try. 

   

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

AR-15 30 round polymer magazine

Target Market:

AR-15 owners who can own 30 round magazines 

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product): 

  • Polymer construction

  • Anti-tilt follower

  • Stainless Steel spring

  • Textured body and floorplate

  • 30 round capacity

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

OD Green, Tan, and maybe more

What others are saying?:

Jay @ Brownells: 4/5 stars

GOOD MAGS, GREAT PRICE

I bought a 10 pack of these as the price is awesome. I was about to buy 10 aluminum mags from another site, and just so happened to check brownells for comparison. I stumbled across these and decided to give them a try after watching some youtube reviews. At first, these did not fit in my AR, but my rifle has a very large broached mag well. After debating whether to send them back for a refund and lose out on some money, I decided to trim some of the material on one mag that was contacting my AR and then they slid right in and out like they should have. It took about 5 seconds a side with a dremel and a sanding wheel per side and it solved the issue. These do not fit 100% of the AR's out there, so keep that in mind. That is the only reason i docked a star. Another issue arose that they would not stay seated in my AR, compared to PMAG's and Mission First Tactical mags. Frustrating to say the least, so what did I do? I bought another complete lower (HAHA!) to compare. As it turns out, the mag release/catch spring was completely shot, so after replacing that spring, they remained in the rifle. I test fitted in the new AR lower and they were tight fitting unlike in the other AR where there was some wiggle room and slid right out. Great construction, the grip and texture of these mags is unique and aids in handling.

Tim L. @ Brownells: 4/5 stars

DECENT NO FRILLS POLYMER AR-15 MAGAZINE

For the price, it's a good magazine. Feels solid right out of the package, however, I tried in both of my AR's and the magazines would not drop free from the gun. Other than that, they claim to feature no-tool disassembly, however, depressing the "2" on the bottom far enough to disassemble the magazine surely requires pressing down with something other than fingers (aka a tool). But a 5.56 bullet tip will do the trick. I'll keep them in the range bag for plinking, but I will stick with the tried and true PMags and HexMags for training, competition, and personal defense.

Link to other reviews:

Ghostginthree on YouTube

Price point:

MSRP = $14.95

Retail = $14.99 @ Pershingarmory.com

I need it now! Availability:

Pershing Armory, Amend2, and Brownells 

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Durable

  • Stainless Steel spring

  • Anti-tilt follower

  • Made in U.S.A.

  • Custom Name Plates

Cons:

  • Rough looking

Score: 8.0 Great

 

Chad's Favorite link: Axelson Tactical

 

 

 

 

Crimson Trace Laserguard

Lasers! Many shop-keeps, keyboard commandos and opinionated range goers will tell you that lasers are lazy and stupid. The common argument is that folks with lasers on their sidearms don't bother learning how to aim using iron sights, and the skills of how to shoot and reacquire those sights with enough proficiency for a real-life, adrenaline-pumping self defense scenario. Batteries do die, and electronics can go bad, so I'm not disagreeing with those talking heads. However, after giving a laser device a try for a few months, I've picked up on some strengths and benefits to carrying a protective firearm equipped with a laser.

Obviously a laser acts like a pointer, and can greatly increase the speed of "point shooting" which is firing a handgun without using its sights. Though certainly not pinpoint accurate or consistent when speed is the focus, point shooting uses the shooter's arm and body geometry to aim the muzzle in the desired direction. It doesn't take much practice to put rounds on a torso sized target at extremely short distances... its almost as easy as pointing the remote at the television. For shooters with less than perfect eyes that can't focus on iron sights, or difficulty during low light / night, as laser on your piece can be your ace in the hole.

Having a laser can add unique feedback when dryfiring indoors, as it telegraphs every millimeter of movement in the muzzle.

Not only that, but it literally encompasses the gun safety commandment: Never point the muzzle at anything you are not willing to destroy. For new shooters, a laser can be a useful training aid that teaches muzzle control. A laser can also show a shooter's stability, as it telegraphs every twitch, shake, or fault in the user's arms and body as it dances around on the target. This movement is more exaggerated at further distances, as a jiggle of around a quarter inch circle at 10 feet will expand when aiming at 20, 30, 40 feet and so on. It's great for giving the shooter instant feedback as to their stance's stability, but a sniper it does not make.

I've also heard people (mostly salesman) say lasers can be a threat deterrent. I can't speak to that personally, but I have asked acquaintances in law enforcement and private security who run lasers on their sidearms and they claim it reinforces the immediate danger the suspect is in, when guns are drawn and verbal commands are given. Lucky for me, my review doesn't have to prove or disprove any of those theories. Let's take a look at product geared for smaller pocket pistols, the Laserguard from Crimson Trace.

CT sources their pocket holsters from Tuff Products. If you carry in the pocket, this really saves you time hunting down the right size holster for your gun + laser combo.

There's very few laser companies with as many product variations as Crimson Trace. Whatever handgun or long gun you own, chances are theres a CT product that can work for it. The Laserguard is a unique design that adapts to smaller, pocket sized and sub-compact pistols that lack any provision for attaching lights or lasers via an accessory rail built into the frame. With the rise in popularity with smaller handguns like the Glock 42/43, S&W Shield/Bodyguard, Ruger LCP/LC9, Taurus Curve, Kel-Tec PF9 and others, there was lack in support for accessories. Crimson Trace designed a housing that snaps around the trigger guard and snugs up against the underside of the muzzle. I picked one up for my Sig P938, as it doesn't have a rail and the ambidextrous 1911-esque thumb safeties would inhibit a laser equipped grip panel anyway. I did get the Laserguard with the holster bundled since my preferred method of carry is inside the pocket, so its nice CT provides the right size pocket holster to fit my gun with the LG-492 installed.

I still like the DeSantis Nemesis Pocket Holster over the Tuff products one CT chose to use, but it still gets the job done.

CT did a good job making the Laserguard easy to install yourself. It comes with the two allen wrenches needed for the housing screws and the windage/elevation screws, as well as your first battery. After installing the battery in the right half of the Laserguard, you simply snap it onto the handgun's triggerguard, then align the left half, press together, and tighten the tiny screws to complete the housing. The Laserguard puts the laser diode directly under the muzzle, with an activation pad right where your middle finger contacts the frame during a proper grip.

The button location makes it pretty idiot-proof and doesn't add any awkwardness to the drawing of the firearm. Just grip normally and the squeezing pressure of your finger will press the activation pad. There is no toggle or programmable modes, so to keep the laser on you will need to maintain the grip pressure. The downside to the LG-492 model designated for my SIG P938 is that there is no master on/off switch, so if I want to shoot without the laser activated, I need to slightly bend my middle finger as to not press the button (or remove the Laserguard entirely). My biggest complaint is I really wish CT made the master switch a consistent feature across all the Laserguard models.

The two main housing screws are tiny, so be sure not to lose them. The laser seems to return to zero when you take the Laserguard off and back on, as long as you tighten them the same as you had when you zeroed in the first place.

Zeroing the laser is pretty easy to do in just a couple minutes. Often I would do this in store when I worked behind a gun counter as it really is simple. Just hold the gun with one hand and aim at a particular point on the wall (in a safe direction, with an empty and safe firearm please). With the other hand, insert the small allen key and turn the windage or elevation screws until the dot moves to where your sights are aiming. Turning the screws counter clockwise will move the dot left or up, and turning clockwise will move the dot right or down. Keep in mind if your handgun's sights require a 6 o'clock hold for accurate point of impact, as you'll want to knowingly move the laser dot higher to where that bullet will hit.

The button area is overmolded with rubber for comfort and wear resistance.

The distance at which you zero your laser is entirely up to you. Supposedly CT zeroes all their products from the factory at 50 feet. The common misconception is that most self defense shootings occur at 21 feet, or 7 yards. That figure has been debunked, and the real average for self defense shootings is a distance closer to 7-10 FEET. Whatever you choose to believe, you should zero the laser for that realistic distance. I zeroed my Laserguard at 20 feet, because at that zeroed distance if I were to aim at a closer object at 10 feet my laser dot is only one inch low. When I back up to 90 feet or 30 yards, the laser dot is about 5-6 inches above where I set my sights. When aiming for tighter groups at different ranges, its good to know how the geometry of the upward angled laser diode when zeroed affects the dot compared to your point of aim.

The Laserguard will shorten your grip area, so hopefully you have a finger rest on an extended magazine, or you're comfortable shooting with a two fingered grip.

My only other major complaint about the Laserguard, is it decreases the real estate for my fingers to grip the frame. On a small pistol like the P938 or others in it's class, you may find there's just enough room for all three of your fingers on the grip as is without any accessories, or you require an extension on the magazine basepad to accomodate your pinky finger.  The addition of the Laserguard and the way it snaps around the trigger guard will add thickness and thus decrease the room for your fingers on the frame. This of course differs for all pistols as the space on the frame is different across the board, but its something to consider if the platform you shoot doesn't have an option for extended magazine bases or finger rests.

After shooting with the laser installed, its almost a certainty that the lens surface will get fouled by the carbon and other crud that comes out of a barrel after firing enough rounds, causing the beam to spread and degrade in sharpness and shape. CT includes cleaning swabs with their lasers, and if you simply use window cleaner or isopropyl alcohol to lightly clean the lens with one swab and dry it with the other, you should be good to go. If you carry inside the waistband or inside the pocket, I would say you should still add this to your maintenance of the firearm as a whole because dust, lint, and other tiny particles will still get on that lens with use.

Don't forget to take advantage of the free batteries for life promo. With a 4 hour battery life for red lasers, CT figures you will need a replacement every year with normal use.

Overall, I'm still on the fence on whether I'll keep the Laserguard on my little Sig. I don't have a disability or other physical reason to depend on the laser for aiming assistance, and I find I am much more accurate without it, just using the iron sights. But I do recognize in a situation where I cannot use a proper shooting stance, or even both hands, I can see the laser being a detriment to a fast and reasonably accurate response to a threat. Just like the gun it's mounted to, its better to have it and not need it, than to need it and not have it at all.

FIREARMS INSIDER REVIEWS – 8 KEY POINTS

Claim to Fame: Laserguard® is the best-in-class laser sighting system for compact and subcompact polymer-framed pistols. Laserguard mounts securely to the trigger guard, enhancing your ability to engage threats quickly and accurately with a small-framed concealed carry handgun.

Target Market:  Handgun owners, Concealed Carriers

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • Polymer housing with Rubber Overmold activation pad
  • Instinctive pressure activation location with middle finger
  • Battery Type: One 1/3N Lithium or Two 357 Silver Oxide Batteries
  • No gunsmith needed, easy to install
  • Battery Life: Red- Four Hours, Green- 2 hours
  • Factory Sighted at 50'
  • User Adjustable for Windage and Elevation
  • Warranty    Three Year Full Warranty
  • Wrench Size    0.05
  • Dot Size    Approx. 0.50" at 50'
  • Master ON/OFF switch on select models

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?:  Red or Green laser diode

WHAT OTHERS ARE SAYING?: 

"It's a good laser sight, nice and bright. I mounted this on a Glock 26 firing 124 Gr. 9mm +P Winchester PDX1. I find that the light weight of the subcompact pistol combined with the nasty recoil of those 9mm +P rounds start my laser dot creeping off zero after about 50 shots (but very slow drift). This is acceptable in a self-defense situation IMO, but be aware that you may have to re-zero this little guy from time to time (which is very simple to do.) It will increase the size of the pistol beyond what will fit in most holsters." - Amazon Customer Review

PRICE POINT:

  • MSRP: $229-329 (red or green laser, with or without holster)

I NEED IT NOW! AVAILABILITY:

Website

Brownells

OUR RATING:

Pros:

  • Easy to install and zero in minutes
  • Activation pad in natural position
  • Some models have bundles available with pocket holsters
  • Returns to zero when removed and reinstalled IF you tighten screws exactly the same amount (still verify zero each time to be sure)

Cons:

  • Won't fit guns with Hogue grips that wrap around the front strap

  • Holster requires custom kydex shells

  • Reduces grip area for fingers

  • Zero shifts slightly after multiple shots (about the 250 round mark for me)

  • Master on/off switch not available on the LG-492 model

SCORE: 6.5 Okay

 

Featured FFL:

For FFL services I choose Promised Land Firearms in Toulon, IL.

Ryan's Links:

Gun & Gear Review Podcast
Hunter of Design

SteathGearUSA IWB Mini Holster

The holster industry is uber saturated with hybrid holsters. New materials are needed to make a new hybrid-hybrid platform.

It's time for another inside the waistband holster review, and fortunately for me the quality of the holsters I get to try just keep getting better and better.  This time around I get to take a look at some premium holsters made by StealthGearUSA. SG makes holsters using unique materials that elevate the comfort and longevity of the product far above the conventional holsters of the past. Let's be honest, buying a IWB holster is absolutely brutal. With every Tom, Dick and Harry cranking out holsters,  all claiming to be "the best," it can be really hard to shop for the right one. You have to decide for yourself, if you are looking for a quick solution that will get you by in a pinch, or a quality rig that's more advanced and comfortable than the rest... which will help you WANT to carry that sidearm everyday.

What makes StealthGearUSA holsters stand above the crowd is the use of a breathable, laser-cut ventilation mesh in combination with an integrated moisture shield and padding cells. They call this patented tech VentCore, and it adds up to a more comfortable carry with reduced sweating and irritation after a full day packing heat. The platform's ventilation allows my skin to breathe, keeping it dry and pretty comfortable. This design, and really the whole company, was born out of frustrations from inferior quality IWB holsters. After field testing a bunch of competitor's holsters that each claimed to be the king of comfort, the owner of SG wanted to create a holster more comfortable than a Kydex shell riveted to a piece of leather.

The Ventcore backing reminds me of the mesh basketball shorts of my youth. It certainly is breathable and soft against bare skin.

The IWB Mini holster is one of SG's popular models. It's basically a narrower width variation of their standard IWB model formerly known as the ONYX. The shorter profile will be welcome among users who find full width IWB designs too bulky and awkward when worn in the 3-6 o'clock position. Using completely synthetic materials instead of moisture-trapping leather, the Mini is ventilated and padded for comfort. It's also noticeably lighter and durable than other holsters on the market that I've tried. 

On the inward facing side, the backing is padded with a custom cut layer of foam thats designed to optimize comfort with each individual gun model. On the inside, the foam padding is specifically selected as to not be moisture-absorbing. On the outward facing side, SG used a hard nylon mesh called Rhinomesh that provides structure and rigidity to the otherwise soft and flexible padding and Ventcore layers. The combination adds up to a backing consistent with other materials in thickness and pliability.

Trigger Guard Coverage: check!
Finger clearance: check!

Muzzle Coverage: check!

The kydex shell of the Mini is custom designed for each individual handgun. The grip clearance is excellent and both the trigger guard and muzzle are covered completely, which I consider must-have features. Obviously full coverage of the trigger guard is a common sense feature for safety, but I also prefer a covered muzzle to prevent the front sight from getting worn / wearing a hole into my clothes, as well as keep lint and debris from accumulating in the barrel, and guarding the muzzle itself from contacting a hard object and sliding up in the holster.

The belt clips have a nice edge that's easy to feel and pry on when attaching to your belt one handed and without looking.

The clips on the IWB Mini are injection molded polymer, and have two screw holes for cant / depth adjustment. Available in either a straight or angled design (to help push the holster tighter into the body) they work with belts between 1.5" - 1.75" wide, and as thick as triple-layer nylon webbing. The upward hook of the clip engages bottom of the belt for maximum retention. Between the shell and the backing, rubber spacers help with adjustment of retention. The clips and shell both use rust resistant black oxide stainless steel fasteners with phillips heads. SG specifically chose not to use rivets, out of concern for premature wear and failure, as well as lack of adjustability.

StealthGearUSA seals their holsters in a pouch that feels like its food grade. They do this to keep the holster fresh from the factory all the way to your door!

The Rhinomesh layer on the outward facing layer is textured and porous. In fact, I can see daylight looking through the backing, and can feel air pass through the materials from either side. The flip side to the material's structural benefit is its texture. The texture of the Rhinomesh adds friction when you slip your gun into the shell, which is why they recommend something I've never heard of before until now.

No thank you, I'll stick to lubing my firearms where it matters, and not treat them like sports cars.

Included with the holster is a promotional card for a product called Quick Draw, which is a dedicated holster lubricant. Yes, you read that right. StealthGear claims the lube will extend to life of the holster by decreasing drag for a faster draw, protect the finish of the firearm from micro-abrasions, and "helps the FEEL of the gun in the holster." Come on guys, that last one puts the BS meter in the red zone. The fun doesn't stop there, because it's recommended that you reapply Quick Draw every 50-100 draws, or every 30 days. Personally, I don't care for the idea of adding another level of maintenance to my holster platform, just because the material the manufacturer chose is a little rough. But if you are the kind of gun owner that worries about keeping a prestine finish and avoids holster wear at all cost, you might want to give the lube a try.

In doing some digging around on the interwebs, I found a review of the Mini's predecessor the Onyx on The Truth About Guns. In a quote from SG at the time: "The hard nylon RhinoMesh facing used where the weapon contacts the platform... has a twist in the warp yarn for extreme strength and abrasion resistance, but still allows maximum breath-ability. We have tested the durability of this facing mesh by holstering and un-holstering a gun in a test holster the equivalent of once per day for 30 years with NO visible wear." I did the math, thats approximately 10,957 times. I doubt I will draw my carry weapon more than 1,000 times in my training time at home, so I choose to not worry about the micro-abrasion issue and forgo the lubrication.

The IWB Mini passed the concealment test with me. At 4:30 - 5 o'clock, which is my preferred position, the Mini kept the grip close to my hip and I did not notice any extra bulk imprinting my pants or shirt. A cover garment ontop of a proper fitting shirt isn't mandatory with this holster. After a few weeks of carrying, I could definitely feel the benefits of the breathable materials as I did not develop a sweaty spot on the skin like I do with other leather or neoprene holster backings.

Sometimes belt loops on your favorite pair of pants often interfere with IWB holster clips when trying to position in the optimum carry position. The Mini's shorter clip to clip length helps resolve that.

At $114, is this holster the reigning champion of "most comfortable holster in the world?" I can't say. Honestly, I think thats a foolish question to ask, and companies who let their marketing department squabble over such claims instead of actually innovating in the R&D department are just as fool hearted. So I say to kudos to SG for trying new materials in the pursuit of a better holster. What I can conclude, is if you as the consumer have tried other holsters in the past and was not pleased with the backing being making your skin hot, sweaty, sticky and uncomfortable... or the weight and bulk of leathers products, than the StealthGearUSA's solution maybe exactly what you are looking for in a IWB holster. 

FIREARMS INSIDER REVIEWS – 8 KEY POINTS

Claim to Fame: When seconds count, your holster will perform.

Target Market:  Concealed Carriers

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • Ventcore breathable mesh backing
  • Rhinomesh front layer
  • Black Oxide hardware
  • Polymer 2 position clips
  • Width: 8 inches
  • Height: 8 Inches
  • Weight: 5.35 oz.
  • Custom designed fit for each handgun model
  • 30+ components

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?:  Black, Flat Dark Earth, OD Green

WHAT OTHERS ARE SAYING?: 

"I'm a corporate manager in the Southeast. I had purchased the IWB Standard for my Walther PPS M2 after hearing great things from fellow pistol owners. It was just as comfortable as they said, but my pants' belt loops didn't sit right with the holster clips. The helpful folks @ SG recommended a swap-out for an IWB Mini. They sent me the Mini along with a prepaid mailer to send back the Standard. I've been wearing the IWB Mini for nearly a week now & am absolutely satisfied with its comfort/quality and the top-tier customer service of the company behind it. StealthGear, you'll be where I look first for my next holster!" - Customer Review

 

PRICE POINT:

  • MSRP: $114

I NEED IT NOW! AVAILABILITY:

Website

OUR RATING:

Pros:

  • Combines lightweight breathability with strength and retention
  • Cant adjustable
  • Mini helps fit smaller folks, or those with pants where belt loops interfere with holster position
  • Website makes selecting gun make, model, light/laser accessory and left/right hand super fast and easily.

Cons:

  • Mesh fabric on backing can fray from aggressive use during training. This is a carry holster, not necessarily a training holster.
  • Current lead times are 25 days due to demand

SCORE: 8.0 GREAT

Featured FFL:

For FFL services I choose Promised Land Firearms in Toulon, IL.

Ryan's Links:

Gun & Gear Review Podcast
Hunter of Design

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